The guide to choosing the best heart rate monitor.

Cycling heart rate monitors are electronic devices designed to measure a cyclist's heart rate during training or racing. These tools are very useful for monitoring the intensity of physical effort, optimizing training, and improving overall performance.

The heart rate monitor measures the heart rate, or the number of heartbeats per minute. This device can detect and record the cyclist's heartbeat through optical sensors or electrodes placed on the wrist, chest, or other parts of the body.

Heart rate is an important indicator of the intensity of physical effort during training or competition. By monitoring heart rate, the heart rate monitor provides useful information for assessing effort levels, monitoring training effectiveness, and adjusting intensity to optimize performance.

Some heart rate monitors may offer additional features, such as heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring, which provides information about the body's adaptation to stress and fatigue. Some advanced models can also measure the power output of the cyclist, the cadence of the pedals, speed, distance traveled, and other related metrics.

It is important to note that heart rate monitors provide an estimate of heart rate and can be influenced by various factors, such as temperature effects, sensor placement, and proper adherence. Therefore, it is advisable to use the heart rate monitor as a reference tool to assess effort intensity, but not as a precise medical measurement.

Heart rate monitors work by using sensors to measure the cyclist's heart rate. There are mainly two types of sensors used in heart rate monitors:

Optical sensors: these sensors use optical detection technology to measure heart rate through contact with the skin. They are usually placed on the wrist and use a combination of LED lights and photodiodes to detect changes in blood flow caused by heartbeats. These sensors are convenient and easy to use as they do not require chest straps or other external devices.

Chest straps: The chest strap uses electrodes that are placed around the cyclist's chest, usually under the breast. These electrodes detect the electrical impulses generated by the heart and transmit them to the heart rate monitor. Chest straps are considered more accurate than optical sensors but require a snug-fitting garment to be positioned correctly.

Regardless of the type of sensor used, once the heart rate is detected, the heart rate monitor processes the data and displays the result on the device's screen. In many models, it is possible to set custom heart rate limits and receive alerts when certain values are exceeded.

Some heart rate monitors are equipped with wireless functionality that allows them to connect to external devices such as sports watches, bicycle computers, or smartphones via Bluetooth or ANT+. This enables the viewing and recording of heart rate along with other metrics, such as speed, distance traveled, and power, providing a more comprehensive analysis of performance during training or competition.

In summary, heart rate monitors use sensors to measure heart rate and offer a variety of functions to monitor the intensity of physical exertion and optimize training in cycling.

The choice of heart rate monitor for cycling depends on your specific needs and the features you consider most important. 

Remember that the choice depends on your personal preferences and the characteristics you consider most important for your specific needs. Evaluate the features, budget, and read user reviews to make an informed decision.

To calculate your maximum heart rate (MHR) in cycling, you can use the general formula 220 minus your age. However, this formula is a rough estimate and can vary individually. A more accurate method is to undergo a stress test under the supervision of a health or training professional. During the test, your maximum heart rate reached during intense effort is measured. This will provide you with a more precise value for your MHR and will allow you to establish target heart rate zones for focused training in cycling.

The positioning of the heart rate monitor depends on the type of sensor used. Here are some common options:

Optical heart rate monitor on the wrist: 

These devices should be worn around the wrist, positioned snugly but not too tight. Make sure the optical sensor is in direct contact with the skin for an accurate heart rate reading.

Chest straps: 

The chest straps are positioned around the chest, just below the breasts. Ensure they are fitted snugly but not too tight, and that the electrodes are in direct contact with the skin.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's specific instructions for the correct positioning of the heart rate monitor, as guidelines may vary slightly from model to model. Also, ensure that the device is compatible with your wrist size or chest circumference for optimal performance.

Before use, it may be helpful to slightly dampen the contact area of the sensor to improve conductivity and achieve a better heart rate reading.

In general, it is important to ensure that the heart rate monitor is positioned stably and correctly to obtain accurate readings during training or competition.

Some of the best brands of heart rate monitors for bicycles include:

Garmin: Garmin is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the field of performance monitoring tools for sports, including cycling heart rate monitors. They offer a wide range of models with advanced features and smart connectivity.

Wahoo Fitness: Wahoo Fitness is a brand specialized in producing monitoring devices for cycling. Their heart rate monitors offer an intuitive interface, wireless connectivity, and wide compatibility with external sensors and third-party apps.

Bryton: Bryton is an emerging brand in the field of bicycle heart rate monitors. They offer performance monitoring devices with a good combination of features and affordability, suitable for cyclists of various levels.

These are just a few of the main brands of heart rate monitors for bicycles on the market. It is important to evaluate the specifications, features, and reviews of the various models offered by these brands to find the one that best suits your needs.