Checking My Pulse With New Balance’s Strapless Heart Rate Monitor

I know some people (like Jenn) swear by the heart rate monitor and wouldn’t be caught without one during their workouts. But I’ll be honest: I’m not that person, even though I know that they are super helpful in making sure you’re pushing yourself and staying in the zone befitting your workout goals.

I’ve even tested a heart rate monitor out for this here site, and while I really liked it, I didn’t run out and replace it when I had to send it back. I’m not one for a lot of bells and whistles during my workouts, and putting a strap around my chest and putting on a watch is just one step too many. (Give me a break; these days I’m lucky if I fit in a shower once a day!) But when I received the strapless New Balance HRT Fit heart rate monitor to try, I was sold before I even used it. Seriously, they had me at “strapless.” Without that unruly chest strap, you simply touch the bezel (fancy word for “the silver rim”) to get your heart rate. I love the fact that you don’t have to concentrate on hitting a specific button or two when you’re in the middle of your workout. Plus, you can easily keep track of your time and calories burned on the monitor. I know that strapless monitors can be a little inconsistent during high-intensity exercise, but I didn’t have any issues with that thankfully.

It may not be the fancy-schmancy precision monitor you’re looking for if you’re a heart rate monitor connoisseur, but if you’re a no-frills gal like me, this affordable gadget, ranging from $38 to $55, might be just the ticket. —Erin