Here are some tips to insure successful data collection with the Exercise Heart Rate Monitor. Please note that the current model of the Exercise Heart Rate Monitor contains a Polar Transmitter Module that is connected to a chest strap. The Polar Transmitter Module can be used with the Heart Rate Receiver or connect directly to devices with a bluetooth (BLE) radio. Older Exercise Heart Rate Monitors that do not use a Polar Transmitter Module can only be used with the Heart Rate Receiver. If your Exercise Heart Rate Monitor can be used via bluetooth, use that mode of connection for best results

  1. Make sure that the belt fits snugly around the chest and is resting directly against the subject’s skin. You may need to reposition the chest strap to the left or right, or place it lower or higher. Make sure to re-wet the electrodes on the chest strap each time the belt is repositioned. The electrodes are smooth rubberized portions of the chest strap that touch the subjects skin.
  2. Use plenty of saline solution to wet the chest strap electrodes.
  3. Be sure to hold the Heart Rate Receiver within 80 cm of the chest strap. This is the maximum transmission range of the transmitter when used with the Heart Rate Receiver.
  4. The receiver for the Exercise Heart Rate Monitor will receive signals from other Polar Transmitter Modules (or older transmitters) if they are within range; be sure to maintain a distance of at least 2 meters between individuals that are wearing this sensor when using the Heart Rate Receiver. This will not be a problem if you can connect to the sensor using a device that supports bluetooth.
  5. Interference from other electrical devices, such as computer monitors and electronic exercise equipment (treadmills, stationary bicycles, etc.), can result in poor readings. Other equipment that may interfere with the EHR signal include televisions, cars, cellphones, TV antennas, and high voltage power lines (both above and below ground). Keep the receiver of the Exercise Heart Rate Monitor as far away as possible from such equipment.
  6. Static electricity in clothing or a flapping shirt can cause electrical interference, so some items of clothing (i.e. man-made fibers) can also cause unusual readings.
  7. Dirty electrodes on the chest strap can cause poor readings. Wash the chest strap regularly after use with a mild soap and water solution. Dry carefully with a soft towel after washing. Do not use alcohol or a solvent based detergent.
  8. With certain individuals, readings from the Exercise Heart Rate Monitor may take a minute or two to stabilize. In such cases, allow the readings to stabilize before clicking on the Collect button. If your Exercise Heart Rate Monitor can be used via bluetooth, use that mode of connection for best results.