9 Best Heart Rate Monitor For Crossfit (2024)

Starting your fitness journey with Crossfit is a great way to become strong, fit, and flexible because it includes high-intensity interval training, strength and conditioning workout,

Due to its high-intensity training, heart rate monitors are essential for CrossFit to avoid any serious problems. Also, heart rate monitors help evaluate your progress, test your limits, and calibrate an effort in CrossFit.

There are numerous heart rate monitors for CrossFit available in the market, but it’s pretty difficult to find the best one for you. But don’t worry; we have enlisted the top 9 best heart rate monitors for CrossFit.

So, without any further ado, let’s jump into it.

Top 9 Best Heart Rate Monitors For CrossFit

Here is the list of CrossFit’s top 9 best heart rate monitors.

1- Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor: Best Overall

The polar H10 heart rate monitor is perfect for accuracy and connectivity. It monitors your heart rate with maximum precision and helps you to connect your heart rate to various training devices.

Talking about its design, it comes with improved electrodes and an easy-to-use buckle with silicone dots. Its strap is interference-free and comfortable even on long wear.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

What we like most in its heart monitoring sensor is accuracy and precision. According to the experts, H10 is the most accurate heart rate sensor in the Polar’s history. 

Because of its top precision by many sources, it is widely recognized for its top accuracy, and it’s the choice of many pro athletes due to top-quality HR measurements.

The most important and unique thing about this monitor is versatile. This means wearing a Polar H10 monitor when cycling, rowing, training indoors, running, and swimming.

Other Features

Along with heart rate monitoring, Polar H10 is also enriched with many features. Most importantly, it works with sports and smartwatches, including Apple, Garmin, Polar, Suunto, etc. 

You can use Strava, Nike, and other HRM-compatible Cardio equipment apps. You’ll also get software updates to keep your HRM up to date.

When we look at its connectivity, it has Bluetooth and ANT+, which provide an excellent variety of connection options like Peloton. It also has an internal memory for one training session. 

Polar H10 is fully water-resistant and has a battery life of 400 hours powered by CR2025. You can also track the battery level with the Polar Beat app but remember; the level will only display when wearing the device.

In A Nutshell

From our point of view, Polar H10 is perfect in all aspects like accuracy, comfort, battery life, water resistivity, connectivity, etc. The only thing that we don’t like about this monitor is that its app charges for common features.

So, if you are happy to pay for the app’s features, we highly recommend you go with the Polar H10.

Key Features

• 1.41 ounces
• Silicone material
• Wireless
• 1 training session built-in memory
• Low energy connectivity
• ANT+ and Bluetooth
• 5 kHz transmission (Gymlink)
• 30m waterproof
• 400 hours of battery life

2- Garmin 12883 Dual Chest Strap Monitor: Runner Up

Garmin devices are well-known for their accuracy, and likewise, the Garmin 12883 heart rate monitor is also equipped with a highly accurate and advanced HR sensor.

Looking at its design, this monitor features a soft strap that is adjustable and comfortable. Additionally, the strap can be washed by removing the heart rate module.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

This premium heart rate monitor works by transmitting real-time heart rate data over Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, allowing you more options to train outdoors, indoors, and even online.

With this heart rate monitor, you’ll be able to consistently receive accurate heart rates on your device in online training apps such as Zwift or other compatible fitness equipment in your favorite class at the gym.

Other Features

What we like most about this heart rate monitor because it is very lightweight (54.4g), which provides you extreme comfort even on long wear.

You can operate this monitor on the temperature ranging from 23°F–122°F (-5°C–50°C).

Talking about its battery life, it comes with the user-replaceable size CR2032 (3 volts) battery which provides you up to 3.5 years of battery life.

In the water-resistivity department, Garmin has provided 1 ATM water-resistivity means that it is sweatproof. However, this heart rate monitor is not ideal for swimming.

In A Nutshell

From our point of view, Garmin 12883 is the best heart rate monitor in all aspects, including accuracy, comfort, battery life, etc. 

The only thing that we don’t like about this monitor is that it can’t connect to the Garmin app directly. Other than that, we highly recommend you go with this heart rate monitor.

Key Features

• 1.9 ounces
• 30mm bandwidth
• CR2032 (3 volts) battery
• 1 ATM water-resistivity
• Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
• Strap is washable

3- Power Labs Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Best Budget

The reason we listed Power labs heart rate monitor is its super comfort. You will find the chest strap made with super soft, stretchable material very comfortable throughout your workout.

As for quality, it is designed to meet waterproof standards, so it won’t matter if you’re riding or running in the rain or sweating during a workout.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

The Power labs HR monitor offers highly accurate heart rate readings with advanced sensors. This device has been battle-tested to last, which we like most. 

In addition, these heart rate chest straps have been tested by experts and professionals in running, cycling, and other activities and have proven to be highly accurate.

Other Features

The Powerlabs heart rate monitor is easy to use and set up for beginners. You can easily pair it with your favorite Bluetooth or ANT+ fitness hardware and apps, thanks to its fast connectivity.

The device is compatible with several fitness apps, including Zwift, Strava, Polar Beat, Garmin, Peloton, Wahoo, etc. 

Using the ANT+ protocol, this monitor can be connected to any bike computer, spin bike, or other fitness equipment.

In addition, this monitor has a pairing light with a custom logo that flashes for 20 seconds during pairing.

The device has a battery designed to last for 6+ months, which is fantastic regarding battery life.

In A Nutshell

We recommend this heart rate monitor because of its accuracy and comfort. In addition, it has other advantages as well.

We dislike that it isn’t ideal for swimming. Other than this, this heart rate monitor is a good choice.

Key Features

• ANT+/ Bluetooth support
• Water and sweatproof
• Six months battery life
• Indoor and outdoor training
• 55 grams
• Works with third-party apps
• Plastic material

4- Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor

Wahoo Tickr X is much more than a heart rate monitor because this monitor doubles as a run tracker that works outdoors and indoors and even count reps during strength training.

Compared to the first generation Tickr X, this new model is slimmer, lighter, and more comfortable. Talking about its design, so it features an updated design with a slimmer shape.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

The incredible thing about this monitor is that it monitors more than measuring your pulse. It measures three advanced running metrics (vertical oscillation, Cadence, and ground contact time).

Another change in the TICKR X is that it features two blinking LEDs placed on the top of the device to see them easily when you glance down. These lights also let you know the sensor is working.

Other Features

This heart rate monitor comes with 50 hours of built-in memory, giving you the freedom to perform your activity without a phone. 

With the Run Smart feature, you can track efficiency and improvements in form. You can use the Wahoo Fitness app to report Running Dynamics. 

Using this app, you can record workout data and automatically upload that data to your favorite training platform like Strava, etc. It also works with 50+ apps, including Zwift, Wahoo Fitness app, Runtastic, UA Record, Runkeeper, Peloton, Endomondo, etc.

Tickr X is equipped with Bluetooth and ANT+ technology, allowing you to pair your smartphone quickly. 

Talking about its battery, so it comes with the CR2032 battery type, which provides you the 500 hours of battery life. Also, it is IPX7 IP rated, which means that it is water-resistant up to 5 FT.

In A Nutshell

We like this heart rate monitor because it is highly accurate, comfortable, Records three advanced running metrics, and can be paired with three devices at a time.

The only thing that we don’t like in Tickr X is that it doesn’t record heart rate during swims. Other than that, it is the perfect one. So, we highly recommend you to go with Tickr X.

Key Features

• 1.7 ounces
• Synthetic material
• Cr2032 battery type
• 500 hours of battery life
• 50 hours of built-in memory
• IPX7 (5 FT) water-resistant
• Cadence
• Ground Contact Time
• Vertical Osciallation
• LED’s

5- Garmin 10997 Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Premium Choice

If you want the most advanced running metrics, then Garmin 10997 is the premium choice. This Garmin HRM-Run provides 6 different running dynamics metrics to take your performance to the next level.

 With its real-time data, you can improve your running and take your activities to the next level. Talking about its design, it comes with a small module that is lightweight and fits entirely within the width strap.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

We like this monitor because of its high accuracy, with the help of which you can know key information besides just how fast your heart is beating.

Also, when you exercise, you are using energy, so with this highly accurate monitor, you will be able to figure out what energy source you are using.

Other Features

The most amazing feature of this heart rate monitor is that it provides you six most advanced running metrics and heart rate monitoring. 

These metrics include Cadence, stride length, ground contact time, balance, vertical oscillation, and vertical ratio.

Looking at its strap, the strap is seamlessly comfortable and easily adjustable; you get extreme comfort even on long wear.

Regarding water-resistivity, HRM-Run is waterproof up to 5ATM; despite not being transmitted through water, it’s waterproof. Most triathletes will wear it under their wetsuit during the swim portion, and it will automatically connect to their device after exiting the water.

Talking about its battery, it features a CR2032 battery providing you with a battery life of up to 1 year (approx. 1 hour per day).

In A Nutshell

We highly recommend you to go with the Garmin HRM-RUN if you are a runner and want advanced running dynamics metrics. Also, we like this monitor because of its accuracy, comfort, and strong battery life.

The only thing that we don’t like about this heart rate monitor is that its strap is not machine washable.

Key Features

• 2,1 ounces or 59 grams
• Six running dynamics
• 5 ATM water-resistant
• ANT+ heart rate
• Supports heart rate variability
• Advanced heart rate features
• CR2032 battery type
• Up to 1 year of battery life

6- Polar H9 Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Best For Cyclists

If you wish to measure your heart rate throughout your workout or training using cardiac data, the new Polar H9 may be what you’re looking for.

It is the ideal jack of all trades sensor for your everyday sports. Using this heart rate monitor, you can get reliable calories and heart rate data. In short, Polar H9 is a reliable and trusted choice of HR sensor that fulfills all your needs.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

Polar H9 has a gold standard in heart rate tracking because it is built on decades of scientific research and development, recognized by researchers and regular users worldwide.

With this monitor, your cardio workouts are more effective. You can track your heart rate and get an accurate calorie burn from the gym to indoor cycling through group exercise and jogging.

Other Features

The thing that we like most about Polar H9 is that it has an excellent connectivity option. It connects to sports and smartwatches, including polar, Wahoo, Garmin, Peloton, Zwift, gym equipment, activity trackers, and other Bluetooth and ANT+ devices.

Using this monitor, you can turn your phone into a fitness tracker and enjoy endless connection possibilities to Polar Club, Polar Beat, Nike+, Run Club, Peloton, and other fitness and training apps.

Its battery life features a coin cell CR2025 battery, which can last up to 400 hours with daily one-hour heart rate training sessions.

Talking about its water-resistivity, its heart rate sensor is water-resistant. Its GymLink technology can be used in water activities.

Note: The Bluetooth wireless technology will not work in the water.

In A Nutshell

We like the Polar H9 heart rate monitor because of its accuracy, faster connectivity, long battery life, and comfort level. The only thing that we don’t like is that it lacks some features you get with pricier monitors.

Key Features

• 0.1 kg
• Polyester material
• Coin cell CR2-25 battery type
• 400 hours of battery life
• Waterproof
• Supports third-party apps

7- Garmin Forerunner 935

Forerunner 935 is an exceptional multi-sport watch that will help you keep a deep eye on your performance and helps to improve it. This device has a wrist-based heart rate monitor and is compatible with ANT+ chest heart rate monitors.

 Talking about its design, so it features a unique design with a silicone strap that stretches nicely between the lugs to sit comfortably on the wrist.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

Forerunner 935 comes with a wrist-based heart rate monitor, which you can also connect with the ANT+ chest heart rate monitor. Also, you can view wrist-based heart rate data on the heart rate widget.

Your device uses the ANT+ heart rate data when both wrist-based and ANT+ heart rate data are available.

How To Pair Garmin 935 Heart Rate Monitor?

Follow these steps to pair your Garmin 935 heart rate monitor: 

• Install the sensor or wear the heart rate monitor
• Bring your device within 1 cm of the sensor and wait for the device and sensor connection. The message will appear when the device detects the sensor.
• If necessary, select. > Settings > Sensors and Accessories to manage ANT‍+ sensors.

Other Features

Forerunner 935 is much more than a heart rate monitor. Using this watch, you can evaluate your training status to indicate if you are overdoing or undertraining it, and it offers extra performance monitoring features.

Regarding its battery life, it provides up to 2 weeks of battery life in watch mode, up to 24 hours in the GPS mode, and up to 50 hours of battery life in UltraTrac mode (with wrist-based heart rate). 

Talking about its water-resistivity, it is waterproof to 5 ATMs, so it will be happy with your water sports and is also packed with swimming features.

In A Nutshell

From our point of view, Forerunner 935 is also the best heart rate monitor as it provides a wrist-based heart rate. Also, it is packed with other smartwatch features which you can enjoy. 

So, we highly recommend you go with the Forerunner 935 if you want smartwatch features and heart rate monitoring.

Key Features

• 1.2 inches round display
• 240 x 240 screen resolution
• Transflective technology
• Wrist-based heart rate monitoring
• Strong battery life
• 5 ATM water-resistant
• Built-in GPS
• UltraTrac mode

8- Garmin VivoSmart HR Crossfit Activity Tracker

Vivosmart R is a sleek and smart activity tracker with a wrist-based heart rate using which you can track your heart rate to get information on accurate calories burned. 

 Garmin’s Elevate Wrist Heart technology lets you monitor your heart rate with this tracker. Talking about its design, it comes with a sleek design which is also lightweight, and you’ll easily forget about it.

Heart Rate Monitoring Features

We like this tracker most because it features a accurate wrist-based heart rate, which allows you to track heart rate to provide more accurate calories burned information.

 This unique technology gives you the freedom to work out with on additional heart rate strap needed. Using this HR technology, you can also get better credit for your efforts and quantify your intensity of fitness activities.

Other Features

With its integrated barometric altimeter, the Vivosmart HR measures floors climbed in addition to steps, calories, and distance.

 It also allows you to stay active and connected with the smart notifications feature. Every time you receive a notification from your smartphone, your watch will gently vibrate and directly displays the information.

 With the intensity minutes, you can monitor your progress against aerobic activity goals recommended by the Health Organizations.

 Garmin promises a battery life of up to 5 days regarding its battery life. Also, it is water-resistant to up to 5 ATMs.

In A Nutshell

From our point of view, this tracker is perfect for heart rate monitoring as it features a wrist-based heart rate monitor. Also, it comes with other features which help a lot in your activity.

Key Features

• Acrylic lens material
• Silicone strap
• 160 x 68 pixels
• Up to 5days of battery life
• 5 ATM water-resistant
• Sleep monitoring
• Garmin Elevate wrist-based heart rate monitor
• Barometric altimeter
• Accelerometer
• Smart notifications
• Step counter
• Calories burned
• HR zones
• HR alerts
• HR calories

9- Fitbit Charge 2 For Crossfit

Among the top reasons for ranking Fitbit Charge 2 for CrossFit is that it can measure calorie burn throughout the day using continuous, automatic wrist-based heart rate measurement.

 Regarding the design, Charge 2 has improved design, a bigger screen, and accurate activity tracking, which make it a reliable and functional experience.

Heart Rate Monitoring Feature

The most fantastic thing that we like in Charge 2 heart rate monitoring is that it tracks your heart rate all day and during exercise. This tracker shoes a heart icon that lets you know which heart rate zone you are in.

 These zones include the Peak zone, Cardio zone, fat burn zone, out of the zone. Additionally, you can customize your heart rate zones in the Fitbit app.

Other Features

With a personalized cardio fitness score, you can better understand your fitness level and see how you can improve over time.

 You can also see real-time stats like pace and distance on your wrist during run mode when connected to the GPS. Count your steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed, and active minutes throughout the day.

 Talking about its battery life, it comes with a battery life of up to 5 days. Also, it is water-resistant up to 1 ATM which means it can bear splashes and sweat.

In A Nutshell

From our point of view, Fitbit Charge 2 is also the best choice for heart rate monitoring. It allows you to track your heart rate the whole day. So, if you want some extra tracking features and heart rate monitoring, you can go with the Fitbit Charge 2.

Key Features

• Steps taken
• Distance covered
• Calories burned
• Active minutes
• Floors climbed
• All-day heart rate and zones
• Reminders to move
• Real-time stats
• 5 days battery life
• 1 ATM water-resistant

What To Consider Before Buying Heart Rate Monitors For CrossFit

The following things should be considered before buying heart rate monitors for CrossFit:

1- Accuracy

The most important thing to consider is the level of accuracy of the heart rate monitor. By monitoring your heart rate accurately, you can take advantage of your physical activity.

 Furthermore, accurate heart rate data provides you with a clear indication of the condition of your cardiovascular system. So, be sure to check the sensor’s accuracy before buying it.

2- Comfort

Another essential factor to consider before buying is comfort. The heart rate monitor chest belt must provide you with a high level of comfort. 

 A comfortable heart rate monitor is one that you can ride for a long time while wearing. Therefore, choose a heart rate monitor that you are comfortable with.

3- Connectivity

Checking the connectivity of the sensor should be another essential factor before buying. You need to ensure that the heart rate monitor connects properly while pairing.

Also, make sure that the heart rate monitor doesn’t lose signals after a while.

4- Design

It’s always important to check the design of the heart rate monitor. You should always choose a design you feel comfortable with and you like that.

Also, make sure that the heart rate monitor you are buying must be lighter in weight to provide extreme comfort even on long wear.

5- Price

When buying heart rate monitors for CrossFit, the price is the most important factor. Make sure the device you choose is within your budget. If you have a large budget, you should choose the expensive one; otherwise, choose the cheap one.

Final Verdict

By the end of this article, you should be able to choose the best heart rate monitor for CrossFit. There is no doubt that all the devices we reviewed are great, but to choose the perfect one, you must pay attention to our buying guide.

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