A cardio heart rate monitor is useful while you are working out in order to track your targeted heart rate. When you accurately monitor the rate at which the heart is beating, it is possible to stay in the selected zone that will provide the most benefit for your exercising effort. Five zones exist that can be defined for this kind of zone training, and each zone is based on percentages of the max rate. This can be calculated using a simple formula. The Warm Up Zone = Zone 1; Aerobic Development = Zone 2 (medium); Aerobic Development = Zone 3 (hard); Anaerobic Endurance = Zone 4 (very hard); Speed and Power = Zone 5 (very hard).

You should begin by calculating your max heart rate, also know as MHR. This is figured by subtracting your age from 220. For example, if you are 40, 220 – 40 = 180, so the MHR would be 180. A second method to calculate your MHR is by subtracting .7 times your age from 208. If you are 40, then use .7 x 40 = 28, and 208 – 28 = 180. Regardless of which formula you use, the numbers should come out the same. While you work out, you should try to keep your heart beating at no less than 65%, and no more than 75% of the MHR. By multiplying your MHR by .65 and .75 (180 x .65 and 180 x .75), you can calculate your parameters. By keeping your MHR between these numbers, you can work out at Zone 2.

A monitor allows you to keep track of your progress while you become fit. As you continue to exercise, your heart rate will become lower for the the same workout over time, as the load of the work becomes less strenuous.

Cardio heart rate monitors can be purchased at a number of price levels. More expensive monitors are more sophisticated, and some may even contain GPS devices. Basic models, which sell for about $60, will provide information about pace, distance, and calories burned in addition to the rate of your heart. Get a great cardio heart rate monitor like Polar F11 heart rate monitor grey pepper or Polar watch RS300X.