Heart rate monitors with chest straps
A heart rate chest strap measures your heart rate during training and transmits it wirelessly to a compatible fitness computer, sports watch or app. Our range includes chest straps with different frequencies and protocols, including 5 kHz, 5.3 kHz, 122 kHz, Bluetooth and ANT+. Check which technology your device supports before ordering.
How does a heart rate chest strap work?
The sensors on the inside of the chest strap detect the electrical signals of your heartbeat. The transmitter sends these readings wirelessly to a suitable receiver. This may be the console of a treadmill, exercise bike, cross trainer or rowing machine, or, with digital models, a sports watch, smartphone or training app.
Which chest strap is compatible with my fitness machine?
Check the fitness machine’s manual or product specifications for its supported frequency or communication protocol. A console suitable for an uncoded 5 kHz signal does not automatically receive Bluetooth, ANT+ or 122 kHz. The right transmission system is therefore more important than the strap’s brand or appearance.
What is the difference between 5 kHz and Bluetooth?
An analogue chest strap transmits the heart rate signal at a fixed frequency, such as 5 or 5.3 kHz. Many fitness machines have a built-in receiver for these signals. Bluetooth uses a digital protocol and can connect to compatible smartphones, apps and consoles. These systems are not automatically compatible with each other.
What is ANT+?
ANT+ is a wireless protocol widely used in sports watches, cycling computers and training equipment. Some chest straps support both Bluetooth and ANT+ so that they can communicate with different receivers. Always check that the receiving device supports the relevant protocol.
Are all heart rate chest straps universal?
No, a chest strap only works when the receiver recognises its transmitted signal. Even straps with a similar frequency are not automatically compatible without confirmation. Also check that the strap offers enough adjustment and that any required pairing with the console or app is supported.
What can you do about a poor heart rate signal?
Make sure the strap fits securely and place the sensors directly against your skin according to the instructions. Lightly moistening the contact surfaces may improve the reading. Also check the battery, distance from the receiver and any pairing settings. Interference sources or other nearby chest straps may affect the signal on some systems.
Caring for the chest strap
Clean the elastic strap and contact surfaces after use according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remove a detachable transmitter module before washing the strap where instructed. Let all components dry completely and do not store the strap wet or tightly folded for extended periods.
Browse our range of heart rate monitors and training meters. For other replacement components, explore our complete range of fitness equipment spare parts.
