A pulse monitor tells you your pulse rate by pressing sensor buttons with one or two fingers. These are alternatives to heart monitors that use chest straps, or stopping to take your pulse using your fingers and watch the old-fashioned way. It is important to test drive any pulse monitor to make sure you can take your pulse accurately with it.
1. Sportline Duo 1060 Heart Rate Monitor and Pedometer Watch
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This multi-function watch lets you view your heart rate by using a finger pulse monitor, or you can use the chest strap sensor. I had no difficulty in getting an accurate pulse with the finger pulse function. But wait, there's more! It has a built-in pedometer to count workout steps (not total daily steps) and estimate distance, speed, calories burned. It includes a timer, stopwatch, interval training timing, and alarms. It also works well as a watch, with night light.
2. Azumio Instant Heart Rate App
Screen shot by Wendy Bumgardner © 2011
3. Mio Heart Rate Monitor Watch
Wendy Bumgardner ©
To take your pulse you press two fingers on the Mio sensors. The Mio also tracks your calories burned, and you can input the calories eaten to track your diet. It times your exercise and works great as a watch, too. I got accurate pulse readings with it and wore it as my primary watch.
4. Gaiam Touch ECG Strapless Heart Rate Monitor SE338
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5. Sportline Pulse Pedometer 355
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Take your pulse with one finger on the sensor. I had no luck in getting a steady pulse with this unit, so try before you buy, it may work for you. It has great pedometer features, it counts steps, distance, calories, has a stopwatch and countdown timer and big display.
6. New Balance Fitness Evolved Headphones NB639
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7. Oregon Scientific Pedometer
The Oregon Scientific PE316PM counts your steps and calculates distance and calories. It also has a clock. You can take your pulse with the pulse meter by pressing a finger to a button. The front cover shields the buttons from accidental resetting. Has a backlight.
