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How to Use the Heart Rate Monitor on an Elliptical Trainer?

Published on
8 min read
How to Use the Heart Rate Monitor on an Elliptical Trainer? image

Best Heart Rate Monitors for Elliptical Trainers to Buy in October 2025

1 KardiaMobile 6-Lead Personal EKG Monitor – Six Views of The Heart – Detects AFib and Irregular Arrhythmias – Instant Results in 30 Seconds – Works with Most Smartphones

KardiaMobile 6-Lead Personal EKG Monitor – Six Views of The Heart – Detects AFib and Irregular Arrhythmias – Instant Results in 30 Seconds – Works with Most Smartphones

  • GET MEDICAL-GRADE EKGS IN JUST 30 SECONDS, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.

  • SIX LEADS PROVIDE DETAILED HEART DATA; SHARE WITH YOUR DOCTOR EASILY.

  • NO SUBSCRIPTION NEEDED-DETECT HEART RHYTHMS EFFORTLESSLY AT HOME!

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$129.00
KardiaMobile 6-Lead Personal EKG Monitor – Six Views of The Heart – Detects AFib and Irregular Arrhythmias – Instant Results in 30 Seconds – Works with Most Smartphones
2 Garmin HRM-Pro Plus, Premium Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor, Captures Running Dynamics, Transmits via ANT+ and BLE (010-13118-05)

Garmin HRM-Pro Plus, Premium Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor, Captures Running Dynamics, Transmits via ANT+ and BLE (010-13118-05)

  • ACCURATE HEART RATE TRACKING WITH ANT+ AND BLUETOOTH COMPATIBILITY.
  • IMPROVES RUNNING FORM WITH DYNAMIC METRICS LIKE STRIDE LENGTH.
  • STORES DATA DURING ACTIVITIES AND SYNCS WITH GARMIN DEVICES POST-WORKOUT.
BUY & SAVE
$124.66
Garmin HRM-Pro Plus, Premium Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor, Captures Running Dynamics, Transmits via ANT+ and BLE (010-13118-05)
3 Garmin HRM 200 Heart Rate Monitor, Accurate Heart Rate and HRV Data, Comfortable Machine Washable Strap, M-XL

Garmin HRM 200 Heart Rate Monitor, Accurate Heart Rate and HRV Data, Comfortable Machine Washable Strap, M-XL

  • REAL-TIME HEART DATA SYNCS WITH GARMIN DEVICES FOR ENHANCED TRACKING.
  • COMFORTABLE, ADJUSTABLE STRAP IN TWO SIZES FOR PERFECT FIT.
  • LONG-LASTING BATTERY LIFE & WASHABLE DESIGN FOR HASSLE-FREE USE.
BUY & SAVE
$79.99
Garmin HRM 200 Heart Rate Monitor, Accurate Heart Rate and HRV Data, Comfortable Machine Washable Strap, M-XL
4 Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap - ANT + Bluetooth, Waterproof HR Sensor for Men and Women, Black, M-XXL

Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap - ANT + Bluetooth, Waterproof HR Sensor for Men and Women, Black, M-XXL

  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: WORKS WITH ALL HRM COMPATIBLE EQUIPMENT.
  • UNMATCHED PRECISION: MOST ACCURATE HEART RATE SENSOR EVER FROM POLAR.
  • DUAL CONNECTIVITY: USE BLUETOOTH AND ANT+ SIMULTANEOUSLY WITH EASE.
BUY & SAVE
$104.95
Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap - ANT + Bluetooth, Waterproof HR Sensor for Men and Women, Black, M-XXL
5 Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor, Black - 010-12883-00

Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor, Black - 010-12883-00

  • COMFORTABLE, ADJUSTABLE STRAP FOR ALL-DAY WEAR.
  • WASHABLE HEART RATE MODULE FOR EASY MAINTENANCE.
  • LONG-LASTING BATTERY: UP TO 3.5 YEARS OF USE!
BUY & SAVE
$69.90
Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor, Black - 010-12883-00
6 Fitbit Inspire 3 Health &-Fitness-Tracker with Stress Management, Workout Intensity, Sleep Tracking, 24/7 Heart Rate and more, Midnight Zen/Black One Size (S & L Bands Included)

Fitbit Inspire 3 Health &-Fitness-Tracker with Stress Management, Workout Intensity, Sleep Tracking, 24/7 Heart Rate and more, Midnight Zen/Black One Size (S & L Bands Included)

  • ACHIEVE YOUR BEST SELF WITH 24/7 HEART RATE AND ACTIVITY TRACKING.

  • MANAGE STRESS EFFECTIVELY WITH MINDFULNESS AND WELLNESS TOOLS INCLUDED.

  • SLEEP SOUNDLY WITH AUTOMATIC TRACKING AND PERSONALIZED SLEEP PROFILE.

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$79.95 $99.95
Save 20%
Fitbit Inspire 3 Health &-Fitness-Tracker with Stress Management, Workout Intensity, Sleep Tracking, 24/7 Heart Rate and more, Midnight Zen/Black One Size (S & L Bands Included)
7 mentech Heart Rate Monitor, Advanced Sensor, Precise Data, 140 Hours Battery Life, Sleep Monitor, Ant + Bluetooth, Comfort, Easy to wear, Auto-wear Detection, Waterproof, Black, Standard(7.1"–13.0")

mentech Heart Rate Monitor, Advanced Sensor, Precise Data, 140 Hours Battery Life, Sleep Monitor, Ant + Bluetooth, Comfort, Easy to wear, Auto-wear Detection, Waterproof, Black, Standard(7.1"–13.0")

  • 140 HOURS OF POWER + 1-HOUR CHARGE: LONG BATTERY LIFE FOR UNINTERRUPTED WORKOUTS.

  • ACCURATE TRACKING + VIBRATION ALERTS: STAY IN YOUR OPTIMAL ZONE EFFORTLESSLY.

  • LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE: TRAIN HARDER WITHOUT DISCOMFORT OR DISTRACTIONS.

BUY & SAVE
$79.99
mentech Heart Rate Monitor, Advanced Sensor, Precise Data, 140 Hours Battery Life, Sleep Monitor, Ant + Bluetooth, Comfort, Easy to wear, Auto-wear Detection, Waterproof, Black, Standard(7.1"–13.0")
8 Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor – ANT + / Bluetooth - Waterproof HR Monitor with Soft Chest Strap, M-XXL

Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor – ANT + / Bluetooth - Waterproof HR Monitor with Soft Chest Strap, M-XXL

  • AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE HEART RATE MONITOR TRUSTED BY USERS WORLDWIDE.

  • GOLD STANDARD IN HEART RATE TRACKING, BACKED BY DECADES OF RESEARCH.

  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL HRM EQUIPMENT AND POPULAR SMARTPHONE APPS.

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$69.90
Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor – ANT + / Bluetooth - Waterproof HR Monitor with Soft Chest Strap, M-XXL
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ONE MORE?

To use the heart rate monitor on an elliptical trainer, you will typically need to follow these steps:

  1. Check if your elliptical trainer has built-in heart rate sensors, which are usually located on the handlebars. Some ellipticals may require you to wear a chest strap heart rate monitor instead.
  2. If your elliptical has built-in sensors, make sure your hands are positioned correctly on the handlebars to ensure accurate heart rate readings. Grip the sensors firmly with both hands, ensuring that your fingers touch the metal plates.
  3. If your elliptical requires a chest strap heart rate monitor, wear the strap snugly across your chest, just below your pectoral muscles. Make sure the sensors on the strap are in contact with your skin.
  4. Begin your workout on the elliptical. As you exercise, the heart rate monitor will start detecting and displaying your heart rate either on the console or a separate display panel.
  5. Monitor your heart rate throughout your workout and adjust your intensity accordingly. Depending on your fitness goals, you may aim to stay within a specific heart rate zone. For example, some individuals may want to maintain a moderate intensity and keep their heart rate at around 50-70% of their maximum heart rate, while others may want to push harder and reach 70-85%.
  6. Continue exercising and periodically check your heart rate to ensure you are staying within your desired zone. Most ellipticals allow you to view your heart rate continuously during your workout.
  7. It’s important to note that heart rate monitors on elliptical trainers may not always be 100% accurate. Factors like grip pressure or movement can potentially affect the readings. For more precise results, consider using a chest strap heart rate monitor, which is generally considered to be more accurate.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or fitness expert if you have any concerns about your heart rate or if you are unsure about the appropriate heart rate zone for your fitness goals.

How to customize heart rate settings based on personal fitness goals on an elliptical trainer?

To customize heart rate settings based on personal fitness goals on an elliptical trainer, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your fitness goals: Decide whether you want to improve cardiovascular endurance, burn fat, or work on interval training. Each goal requires different heart rate zones.
  2. Calculate your target heart rate zones: To determine your target heart rate zones, use the following formulas: Resting heart rate (RHR): Measure your resting heart rate either by manually checking your pulse for one full minute just after waking up, or by using a heart rate monitor. Maximum heart rate (MHR): Subtract your age from 220. Target heart rate zones: a. Low-intensity zone: (50-60% of MHR) b. Moderate-intensity zone: (60-70% of MHR) c. High-intensity zone: (70-80% of MHR) d. Maximum-intensity zone: (80-90% of MHR)
  3. Program the elliptical trainer: Most modern elliptical trainers come with built-in programs targeting different fitness goals. Choose a program that corresponds to your goal or manually adjust the resistance and incline to reach your desired heart rate zone.
  4. Adjust the resistance and incline: Increase the resistance or incline level to intensify the workout and reach higher heart rate zones. Decrease the levels to lower the intensity.
  5. Monitor your heart rate: Utilize heart rate monitors on the elliptical trainer. It can be either built-in handlebar sensors or chest straps. Continuously check and adjust your pace and resistance to keep your heart rate within the desired zone.
  6. Gradually increase intensity: As your fitness level improves, gradually increase the intensity to challenge your body and ensure continued progress towards your goals. This can be done by increasing the resistance, time, or speed on the elliptical.

Remember to consult with a fitness professional or healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

How to effectively use heart rate data to maximize results on an elliptical trainer?

Using heart rate data can be an effective way to maximize your results on an elliptical trainer. Here are some tips to effectively use heart rate data:

  1. Determine your maximum heart rate: Calculate your maximum heart rate by subtracting your age from 220. This helps you understand your heart rate zones during exercise.
  2. Warm-up and cool down: Start with a warm-up to gradually raise your heart rate and prepare your body for exercise. At the end of your workout, cool down to gradually lower your heart rate.
  3. Set target heart rate zones: Use your maximum heart rate to set target heart rate zones. Generally, exercising between 50-70% of your maximum heart rate is considered a moderate-intensity workout, while 70-85% is a vigorous-intensity workout. Adjust your elliptical trainer's resistance and speed to reach your desired heart rate zone.
  4. Monitor your heart rate: Wear a heart rate monitor while using the elliptical trainer, as it provides real-time feedback on your heart rate. Ensure it is worn correctly and adjust your pace or resistance if you fall outside your target zone.
  5. Interval training: Incorporate interval training into your elliptical workouts. Alternate between high-intensity intervals (80-85% of your maximum heart rate) and recovery periods (60-70% of your maximum heart rate). This can help maximize calorie burn and improve cardiovascular endurance.
  6. Progress gradually: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your elliptical workouts as your fitness level improves. This will help you continually challenge your body and see results.
  7. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel during your workout. If your heart rate feels too high or you experience discomfort, adjust the intensity accordingly. It's important to exercise within your personal limits.
  8. Track your progress: Document your heart rate data, workout duration, and intensity to track your progress over time. This will help you assess improvements in your fitness level and identify areas for further growth.

Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any pre-existing heart conditions.

What is the relationship between heart rate and perceived exertion on an elliptical trainer?

The relationship between heart rate and perceived exertion on an elliptical trainer can vary depending on the individual and their fitness level. However, in general, there is a positive correlation between heart rate and perceived exertion.

As the intensity of the workout increases, either by increasing resistance or speed on the elliptical trainer, the heart rate tends to go up. This is because the heart needs to pump more blood and oxygen to the working muscles to meet the increased demand.

Simultaneously, individuals tend to perceive this increased effort as greater exertion. This perceived exertion is a subjective measure of how hard an individual feels they are working. It can be influenced by various factors such as muscle fatigue, breathing difficulty, and overall body discomfort during the exercise.

Therefore, as heart rate increases, perceived exertion tends to increase as well. It is important to note that the relationship between heart rate and perceived exertion can be influenced by individual factors such as fitness level, age, and overall health. Some individuals may have a higher or lower perceived exertion at the same heart rate due to these factors.

The recommended intensity level on an elliptical trainer can vary depending on individual fitness goals, overall cardiovascular health, and current fitness level. One common method to determine the intensity level is to calculate the target heart rate range, which is typically around 50-85% of the maximum heart rate. To calculate this, subtract your age from 220 to find your maximum heart rate, and then multiply it by the desired percentage (e.g., 0.5 for 50% or 0.85 for 85%).

For example, if a person is 40 years old, their maximum heart rate would be around 180 beats per minute (220 - 40). To exercise at a moderate intensity level, they might aim for a heart rate of around 50-70% of their maximum heart rate (90-126 bpm in this case). For a more vigorous workout, they might target a heart rate of 70-85% (126-153 bpm) of their maximum heart rate. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified personal trainer for personalized advice and to consider any specific health conditions before starting or changing an exercise regimen.

What is the accuracy level of heart rate monitors on elliptical trainers?

The accuracy level of heart rate monitors on elliptical trainers can vary. On average, most heart rate monitors on elliptical trainers have a reasonable level of accuracy, usually within a few beats per minute (BPM) of accuracy. However, the accuracy can be affected by various factors such as the quality and placement of the sensors, the user's movements, sweat, and other environmental factors.

Some high-end elliptical trainers may have more advanced heart rate monitoring technology and can provide more accurate readings compared to lower-end models. Additionally, wrist-based heart rate monitors tend to be less accurate than chest strap monitors in general.

It's important to note that while heart rate monitors on elliptical trainers can provide a general idea of your heart rate during exercise, they may not be as accurate as medical-grade heart rate monitors or those used in professional settings. For precise heart rate readings, it's recommended to use a dedicated chest strap monitor or consult a medical professional.