5/24/2016

Monitoring Heart Rate - Handy GPS map with an external heart rate monitor

Handy GPS map


   The other device I am using to monitor my heart rate is a handy device with a map feature.  People can install maps where people are interested in.  The device can show the current location on the map something similar as a car navigation device.   Such devices are getting very popular among with hikers and there are many different devices available in outdoor stores.
   I also have a device from Garmin GPSMap 62s and install “TOPO U.S. 24k west map”.  It is convenient for many hikers.  There are different models, some of them are preinstall maps and some of them needs to install maps by yourself.   Maps are sold online as well.  In general, the total cost for the devices is usually lower than the running watch with the GPS function.
Since my first running watch was used up to six hours, therefore, I used the handy GPS device to monitor my heart rate during hiking before I got Forerunner 910XT.  The device can use standard AAA batteries and it is not a problem for longer use as long as I have spare batteries.
So, it is a good way to monitor the heart rate with this type of devices.   People just need to buy heart rate monitor as an option.
   The reason I usually use the running watch is just for convenience.   Because I am not watching the map and my location all the time during hiking and it is just convenient to see the heart rate with a watch.  Then I do not have to hold the device all the time.  Also, for the running watch, I can set a threshold for the maximum heart rate and it will make a sound to notify the heart rate is out of the range.

The final conclusion
·            If people willing to pay some extra money, the running watch with the GPS function is a good choice.  It is convenient and easy to check the heart rate during the hiking.  Because the device is designed for runners who are using the device while they are running.  However, it might need to charge during the night from external battery if people go longer hiking more than a few days.
·            A handy GPS device is another choice for people want to have a GPS based map display.  It is also working well during the hiking.  Only thing is that people needs to hold the device during the hiking to check the heart rate often.   But the advantage is the device has a nice map on the display to check the location as well.
·            The lowest cost solution would be an activity monitor with heart rate monitor feature.  It is probably good enough just monitor the heart rate.  The battery life is relatively the longest and people can get a rough distance based on steps during the activities.  I think it is probably good enough for most of people to monitor their heart rate during the hiking.   It is easy to check the heart rate during hiking as well.

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