Sports running watch with heart rate monitor. Rating of the best chest heart rate monitors

If you think that sports watch– it’s just a beautiful accessory, then you’re wrong. It's a powerful tool for tracking many aspects of your well-being. physical activity. Beginner runners simply need this gadget: it will help control the level of loads, maintain optimal mode and analyze progress. Experienced athletes will achieve more from their training if all activity indicators are at hand (or rather on their hand).

This material will introduce you to the best offers in the running watch category. Here you will find both budget options for the amateur level and advanced ones for serious athletes. But before we get to the current offerings, let's take a look at the sports running watches that will hit the market in the very near future.

Expected for sale: Garmin Forerunner 45 / 245 Music / 945

Several running watches with GPS from the American manufacturer Garmin are coming. Pre-orders are already open on the official website, and new items will soon appear in other stores.

Forerunner 45 belongs to the initial category. The watch is equipped with a heart rate sensor, GPS, sleep tracking, Body Battery, and has a set of profiles for gym and outdoor activities. They have access to free Garmin Coach adaptive training plans. There are four colors and two sizes to choose from – 39 and 42 mm.

Forerunner 245 Music is the successor to the popular Forerunner 235 model. An innovation is music options with the ability to listen to streaming audio from Spotify and Deezer services, as well as download tracks to internal storage. The watch is also equipped with heart rate and Pulse Ox sensors. The latter determines how well the body absorbs oxygen during exercise. In the next update, the watch will receive a function for tracking women's health.

Forerunner 945– top-level offer. The watch has built-in media storage, a contactless payment system, an emergency call function and a huge range of different sports modes adjusted for heat, acclimatization and individual human performance.

Garmin Forerunner 935: The Best GPS and Heart Rate Watch for Running

Price: 29,999 rubles

While the Forerunner 945 is not yet widely available, the best hours With a focus on running, the Forerunner 935 remains lightweight, precise, and incredibly comfortable.

They are designed to track various types running activities, including trail running. Elevate's heart rate sensor allows you to track your heart rate not only during exercise, but throughout the day. In addition to heart rate, speed, pace and distance data, the watch collects information about the degree of oxygen absorption in the body, calculates individual performance indicators and recommended rest time.

The optical sensor demonstrates high information content during training medium intensity, however, during heavy loads its accuracy decreases. For the most accurate calculations, we recommend pairing the ANT+ chest heart rate monitor with Forerunner 935. The watch can also work in conjunction with the Garmin Running Dynamics Pod, which detects six running modes, duration of foot contact with the ground, stride length and many other indicators.

The Forerunner 935 is a sports watch with GPS and heart rate monitor for a wide audience. They are suitable for those who are serious about training and those who exercise from time to time. Non-professional athletes can also look at more budget-friendly options like the Forerunner 235 or Forerunner 245, and for marathon runners, the Garmin Fenix 5 may be an interesting model.

Garmin Forerunner 35: The Best Budget-Friendly GPS Watch for Running

Price: 11,790 rubles

Many running watches have impressive functionality and are not cheap. But there are also options for those who want a good watch with GPS and a heart rate monitor without Olympic-level statistics. One of them is the Garmin Forerunner 35, a wearable gadget that collects data on running pace, distance and heart rate.

Like the rest of the Garmin line, Forerunner 35 is equipped with technology heart rate Elevate. It gives a clear picture of the pulse during low and medium intensity loads. To obtain detailed information about the work of the heart under high loads, you must connect an ANT+ chest heart rate monitor to the watch.

The design is simple and neat. The screen contains a lot of useful information. Thanks to its 5 ATM water resistance, the watch can be used in the rain and in the pool. For lovers of swimming, cycling and cardio training, appropriate modes are provided.

For about the same price, you will soon be able to purchase the next generation of sports watches - the Garmin Forerunner 45. In terms of design, they have a round dial, and the set of functions is approximately the same.

Garmin Forerunner 235: Best Budget Running Watch #2

Price: 17,290 rubles

Now this is one of the best deals: the watch is already 4 years old, and after the announcement of the Forerunner 245, the price has dropped even lower. This is the first model that was designed with thin wrists in mind, so it is recommended primarily for women.

This running watch uses an optical heart rate monitor from Elevate (the same one found in the Garmin Forerunner 935, which costs twice as much). From the premium Forerunner 235 devices, the technology for changing the level of oxygen in the blood was inherited. In addition to her, presented full set basic functions, including tracking sleep, number of steps, etc. There are not many cheap running watches with such a set of functions in the Garmin line of sports gadgets.

Garmin Fenix 5S Plus: The Best Women's Running Watch

Price: 61,450 rubles

This wearable gadget looks like ordinary ones. It is aimed at serious athletes and athletes with thin wrists. With a 42 mm case, the weight is 69 g.

5S Plus is a smaller version of Fenix 5 Plus without sacrificing technical capabilities. It features Google Pay, a heart rate monitor, onboard storage, color maps, access to Garmin Connect IQ, and an incredible suite of stats tools.

There are modes for both popular and specific sports - running, cycling, swimming, golf, kayaking, rowing, etc. The accessory works with satellite systems and Galileo. With GPS always on, it will work for up to 11 hours. In normal mode, autonomy is about a week.

Polar Vantage M: Best Women's Running Watch #2

Price: 19,990 rubles

The stylish Polar Vantage V (shown below) won't be for everyone. Its closest alternative from the same manufacturer is Vantage M.

Model M has almost all the functions of its expensive brother, it is distinguished by a convenient design, the presence of replaceable straps and decent battery life (about 30 hours in active mode).

Smart sports watches not only collect statistics on physical activity, but also analyze it to help optimize exercise and allow sufficient recovery time between classes. This is an accessory for those who understand that they are tall sports achivments depend not only on grueling workouts, but also from proper rest.

Polar Vantage V: the best watch for interval training

Price: 34,990 rubles

The 2014 Polar V800 was replaced by the Polar Vantage V. Thanks to an expanded set of statistical tools, the gadget became one of the sports accessories professional level.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, Vantage V tracks running power without the need for additional accessories. Running power is the force exerted by an athlete to push off the ground and maintain running at the current speed. In some ways, it is a more accurate indicator of performance than heart rate. When used correctly, running power data helps you wisely use your body's reserves and save energy over long distances.

That's not all. Polar Vantage V is a GPS running watch with heart rate monitor that helps its owner optimize rest intervals. 40 hours of battery life is a clear advantage over the Polar V800, as is the design and set of training modes.

Garmin Fenix 5 Plus: the best watch for those who like to run to music

Price: 61,450 rubles

An amateur athlete may feel that the Fenix 5 Plus is oversaturated with settings. However, thanks to a recent update, this running watch has gained an interesting feature that will interest a wide audience.

Fenix 5 Plus is one of the best hours with a focus on running, there's no doubt about it. They offer specialized modes for all types of outdoor activities. There's an option for normal running, running on natural terrain (trail running), hiking, SUP surfing and even skydiving.

The built-in optical sensor can measure blood oxygen saturation, body recovery time, expected training effectiveness and much more. Apart from the Fenix 5 Plus, only the Forerunner 935 offers such abundant running activity statistics across the entire Garmin line.

For those who are not fixated on one route, the watch offers a set of color maps with the ability to download custom routes in GPX format. This is their main difference from the base Fenix 5 model.

The latest update brings the ability to play tracks from Spotify offline. Add Garmin Pay support to the mix and you've got one of the best feature-rich sports watches around.

Suunto 9: the best running watch with a big battery

Price: 33,990 rubles

In addition to running, they offer a huge number of other activities, but the manufacturer paid the most attention to autonomy. In the most severe energy saving mode with GPS turned on, the gadget will last 120 hours.

Before starting a workout, the watch will notify the user how much charge remains. You can switch to energy-saving mode right during your workout.

The watch gives surprisingly accurate speed readings. The FusedSpeed function is responsible for this: it compares satellite geodata with information received from the acceleration sensor. This is especially useful when running on rough terrain, during interval training, or in cases where the GPS signal is lost due to tall buildings, trees, or other obstacles.

Despite all the interesting features, some users are dissatisfied with the Suunto 9 interface and the rather poor mobile application. So if convenience and sports functionality are more important to you than autonomy, pay attention to the line of sports running shoes.

Apple Watch Series 4: the best smartwatch with running monitoring

Price: from 26,600 rubles

The first ones were not designed for running or other sports activities. Much has changed since then: now watchOS 5 offers everything you need for work and active pastime.

The built-in GPS module picks up satellites almost instantly. The watch can be synchronized with playlists in Apple Music, and you can also pay with it in stores that have terminals. The watch has a modification with an LTE module, in this case it supports streaming music playback and mobile communications.

WatchOS 5 is available not only for the fourth, but also for the third and second generations Apple Watch. It contains many new features that will be useful to running enthusiasts. The Workout app has added sliding pace (a measure of how long it took you to cover the last kilometer), average cadence, and automatic run detection.

Apple services are a pretty good ecosystem for runners, but many still prefer specialized applications designed with sports needs in mind. After Apple opened access to location data to third-party applications, the watch became fully compatible with many popular platforms such as Strava. The statistics are not the most voluminous - they are limited by the pace, duration of the race, distance and heart rate. The heart rate monitor in Apple Watch 4 is not medically accurate, but for the consumer class it is excellent: with high intensity training lies no more often than Garmin and Suunto sports watches.

Fitbit Ionic: The Best Fitbit Watch for Running

Price: from 15,000 rubles

Ionic is the only watch with built-in GPS. Like the Apple Watch, it offers enough tools for tracking fitness activity at the amateur level. The main features are measuring pace, distance traveled, calories burned. There are not many additional parameters, so this gadget can only be recommended to those who run infrequently and for fun, and not for serious achievements.

The autonomy is decent - about 10 hours with active use with GPS and 4 days in standby mode.

Amazfit Stratos: budget running watch with GPS

Price: 10,990 rubles

The Amazfit brand, which is not very popular in the sports environment, owned by the Chinese company Huami, largely copies Garmin. It turns out well.

Amazfit Stratos monitors running activity, exercises elliptical trainers, cycling, swimming, triathlon, mountaineering, trail running, tennis, football and horse riding alpine skiing. There is support for GPS and GLONASS, synchronization with Strava, you can upload music and your own routes in GPX format to the gadget.

Amazfit has its own analysis system, FirstBeat, which offers advanced statistics similar to Garmin. It includes data on oxygen consumption. The optical heart rate sensor cannot boast of high accuracy, but this is compensated by the fact that Amazfit Stratos is able to work in conjunction with chest heart rate monitors.

It has a lot of functions, but you shouldn’t expect something at the Garmin level, although overall it’s far from the worst running watch gadget.

Coros Apex: budget running watch with GPS #2

Price: 29,990 rubles

Coros specializes in making smart bicycle helmets. The company's first attempt to enter the sports watch market took place in early 2018, when the Coros Pace model was announced. It was soon followed by the Coros Apex.

Coros Apex is available in two sizes - 42 and 46 mm. In technical terms, there are no differences: both versions of sports watches offer support for GPS and GLONASS, heart rate monitoring, and an AI load and rest mode analyzer. When geolocation is turned on, autonomy is 25 hours for the 42 mm model and 35 hours for the larger one.

The accompanying application is stable and highly informative. It is possible to send data to Strava and TrainingPeaks. If the Garmin and Polar lines are too expensive for you, take a look at the Coros Apex. This watch may not have won millions of fans, but it is definitely worth a look.

Running watches with a heart rate monitor perform different functions: for lazy people they act as a personal motivator, for professionals they help monitor daily performance, and for beginners it is a reason to finally start training. Different gadgets will suit all these people. But how to choose a heart rate monitor for running if there are as many offers on the market as there are cups of water in the ocean? We'll figure out.

Let's discard the unnecessary: 6 main characteristics when choosing a watch

In order for a watch to be useful, you need to choose it not according to the rating of the newest or stylish devices. The emphasis should be on needs. Ask yourself: is this gadget needed for a beginner, who only needs to count mileage and heart rate, or for a professional, when speed, navigation, and training modes are important? A beginner will unnecessarily overpay for an unnecessary set of functions, and a master of his craft will not be able to simply monitor his pulse.

So, here is the algorithm that you should follow when choosing a sports watch for running.

First, decide on the amount you are willing to allocate to purchase the device. But keep in mind that the cheap option is more suitable for a beginner: it may show results with an error.
Indicate in what types of training the device will be used. This could be fitness, triathlon or amateur jogging in the morning.
Decide how often classes will be held: every day or once a week. Consider the time of day: if you run in the evening, it would be more advisable to choose a backlit model.
Indicate what is more important: measurement accuracy or compactness of the device? Professionals are advised to pay attention to more bulky options with a chest sensor; amateurs will also use a wristband.
For sports under any conditions, it is better to choose a water- and shock-resistant model.
Battery life is also important, be sure to read this information, it will be a shame if the battery runs out before the end of the workout.

Additional features that should not be ignored

We've covered the main points, let's move on to additional features that will also help you decide on a running model:

heart rate monitor;
alerts;
stopwatch;
automatic pause;
ability to connect a headset;

Now in more detail about each. What is a heart rate monitor? This is a built-in device that counts the number of heartbeats in 1 minute. It is important to monitor the indicator, as it makes it clear how intense the training was. If the value is too high, then this will be a reason to “slow down” - reduce the load, in order to avoid negative consequences.

Research was conducted at Stanford University, and this watch showed the smallest error compared to chest sensors. The smart model measures distance, speed, and running pace.

The distinctive features of the gadget are as follows:

autonomy – 18 hours;
they not only measure your pulse, but also work like a smart watch: they show notifications that come to your phone;
there is GPS and Wi-Fi;
moisture protection up to 50 m;
Compatible only with iPhones.

Such a device costs $300-700, depending on the color design and model, there are several variations.

Best triathlon watch

Running plays a key role in triathletes' training, but triathletes need equipment that is also suitable for swimming and cycling. Here best choice will be Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR.

This watch is known for its multi-sport capabilities, so it doesn't get any better than this for triathlons. They do not have a chest heart rate monitor, but this device can be purchased additionally and connected via Bluetooth. Suunto Spartan monitors your heart rate continuously, even while swimming and sleeping.

Among the features:

GPS and GLONASS navigation systems;
pedometer, heart rate monitor;
moisture protection at a depth of up to 100 m;
digital compass;
16 hours of operation without recharging.

The price of the device is $522.

The best watches for fitness

If a person is into fitness and it is important for him to monitor his health, calories burned and mileage, it is worth trying the Withings Steel HR. There is a heart rate monitor and various counters to help you with your workouts. The price of such a watch is $200.

The gadget will not cause any inconvenience during training, the display is very compact, and the watch is stylish and comfortable to wear. Battery life is also a strong point of the Withings Steel HR, as much as 25 days “in one go.” In addition, it is suitable for, moisture protection allows you to immerse the gadget to a depth of up to 50 m.

If a person expects to lead healthy image life, to give the body small loads in different areas, the Withings Steel HR is the winner in the rating of fitness watches.

Great option for beginners

Sometimes a person lacks motivation to start running. Yes, in the evening a grandiose plan is prepared, and the next morning you want to sleep longer, and again all your efforts go down the drain. Polar M400 will help you add motivation and get started.

Recently, heart rate monitors have become quite popular devices on the market. Moreover, not only athletes, but also ordinary people who decide to monitor their health or have problems with their heartbeat are interested in them. If you have been interested in such devices for a long time, but could not decide on a model, thanks to our article you will know which one is right for you. In it you will find a rating of heart rate monitors from various price categories.

No. 10 – Beurer PM15

Price: 3,400 rubles

Beurer PM15 is an inexpensive but good heart rate monitor. You won’t find any exotic functions here; the device’s arsenal is modest – a stopwatch, a clock, an alarm clock and a heart rate sensor.

However, the latter works quite accurately - the manufacturer notes that the error in the values is literally several units. In addition to this, the owner of the model can finely control his heart rate by fine-tuning the upper and lower limits.

Unlike other representatives of the entry-level segment, the gadget fits well on the hand and is also not afraid of moisture. Therefore, drops of rain or sweat will not damage the heart rate monitor. The disadvantages include the low brightness of the display, due to which it begins to glare on a sunny day.

No. 9 – SIGMA iD.GO

Price: 2,850 rubles

SIGMA iD.GO is interesting because it comes with an analog chest transmitter and a strap for it. Thus, if for some reason you don’t like the arm mount, you can wear it in a different way.

Which one is better is up to the user to decide. However, if you attach it to the wrist, you won’t be able to use the watch, which is the main disadvantage.

The functionality of the model is modest, exactly the same as that of the previous competitor. Due to this, switching between modes is carried out using just one button. The device will be a good option for those who don’t need extra bells and whistles that can get confusing. It copes with its direct task no worse than more expensive models.

No. 8 – Sanitas SPM25

Price: 3,600 rubles

Sanitas SPM25 has more interesting functionality. So, in addition to the usual heart rate measurement, the popular model can calculate the average value of indicators and indicate the maximum frequency.

In addition to this, there is a convenient function that allows the device to adjust to the time and intensity of the workout and, based on this, count the number of calories burned. This is complemented by a standard set of calendar, alarm clock, stopwatch and clock.

To more accurately display the values of the heart rate monitor, the user will be able to configure his personal parameters - gender, age, etc. The design of the solution is laconic, and therefore you can wear it on your hand even with a business suit. From weaknesses You can only highlight the rather weak brightness of the screen.

No. 7 – DFC W117

Price: 2,990 rubles

DFC W117 is a profitable option in terms of price and quality. In their reviews, users especially note its autonomy - the device can work for about a year on a pair of batteries.

The functionality here is decent - you can calculate the maximum and average heart rate, set training zones, and also monitor calories. The screen has a backlight, and it is bright enough so the display will not glare in the sun.

The weak side of the model is the body – it is made of not the highest quality plastic. Thus, it will be able to survive the ingress of moisture, but it is unlikely to fall on the asphalt. Despite this, the watch fits well on the hand, and the strap can be adjusted if necessary.

No. 6 – SIGMA PC 15.11

Price: 3,500 rubles

SIGMA PC 15.11 is a model from a long-established manufacturer. He managed to equip the heart rate monitor with a fairly large screen on which many different numbers can be placed, and, due to the fact that each value has its own font, it is impossible to get confused in them.

In order for the device to calculate the number of calories burned, you will have to enter your personal data.

The power source used here is a CR2032 battery, whose capabilities are enough for more than a dozen workouts. The good news is that the case is waterproof - you can dive with a heart rate monitor even to a depth of 30 meters. One of the downsides is that the strap is not the most comfortable.

No. 5 – Polar H10 M-XXL

Price: 6,200 rubles

Polar H10 M-XXL is an advanced model and the first fully chest-mounted heart rate monitor in our top. Its features include the ability to display data from the last workout and send data to a smartphone. Thus, during physical exercise you don't have to carry your mobile device in your pocket.

The manufacturer also took care of the design - the strap can be precisely adjusted and locked in the desired position.

The sensor for measuring heart rate here is modified with signal protection, and therefore it is not interfered with by interference during measurements. The only downside we can highlight is the price – some users think it is overpriced.

No. 4 – Polar FT4

Price: 9,800 rubles

Polar FT4 is a product from a Finnish company that, although it looks simple, has impressive functionality.

The device can not only display the maximum and average value, but also save them to its memory in order to give the user the recommended limit value next time physical activity.

Variation of indicators over time is demonstrated graphically. There is a display backlight and a sound signal that is triggered when the maximum value is exceeded. The device body is waterproof. In addition to this, there is a high accuracy of the displayed values, the presence of a GPS module, as well as reliable materials that allow us to talk about the durability of the device.

No. 3 – PUMA PU91129100

Price: 11,500 rubles

PUMA PU91129100 is equipped with a built-in heart rate sensor, due to which it is able to display the most accurate heart rate. All the functionality inherent in analogues is also here - maximum and average heart rate, saving values in memory, screen backlighting, allowing you to use the device even under bright sunlight. The product was made in Germany, and therefore there is no doubt about the quality of the assembly - all components fit perfectly.

The strap of the heart rate monitor is comfortable; judging by the reviews, there were no cases of allergies among users. The case is waterproof and can withstand immersion under water to a depth of 50 m. The only disadvantage is the price, due to the popularity of the brand.

No. 2 – Beurer PM90

Price: 6,600 rubles

The Beurer PM90 heart rate monitor is designed in a watch format and is complemented by an external heart rate sensor. It does not look very attractive - its large dimensions affect it. The manufacturer made such sacrifices in order to save money. However, the device is not intended for everyday wear, and therefore this is not so critical.

But during training, it earns back every penny invested - in addition to measuring heart rate, the gadget is able to display the amount of fat burned and calories. Running enthusiasts will appreciate the lap counting feature.

Such a heart rate monitor will also help in climbing any mountain. The fact is that there is a barometer and a heart rate monitor. They will warn you in time that the conditions ahead are too difficult. Based on them, the determination of the maximum volume of inhaled oxygen is also implemented. The gadget also includes a thermometer, although its measurements on the wrist cannot be called particularly accurate.

#1 – Polar V800 HR

Price: 30,000 rubles

Polar V800 HR is definitely the best heart rate monitor of 2020, and no other model can stand comparison with it. These are full-fledged smart watch, able to synchronize with smartphones based on Android and iOS to transmit training data, notify the user of incoming calls and messages, and are equipped with an LCD display with a bright backlight, which is enough for glare-free operation even on a sunny day.

In addition to its direct responsibility - measuring heart rate, the gadget can monitor sleep, calories, and warn about lack of physical activity. Useful sensors include an accelerometer, gyroscope, thermometer and altimeter. Such an extensive arsenal allows the device to be relevant in any conditions.

Autonomy is provided by a 350 mAh battery. Thanks to it, you won't have to change batteries. The disadvantages include not only the price. Thus, according to user reviews, the device has problems with updates - some lead to reset of settings or failure of some functions.

Photos of the best running watches

What are the best running watches? You are in the right place at the right time to find out. Whether you're a beginner training for your first marathon or need a watch for a serious challenge, then you have big choice! We've looked at all the running watches on the market - from cheap and simple ones to more expensive and functional options - and bring them to your attention.

When it comes to pure running, the Forerunner 935 takes revenge. While the Fenix 5 Plus is arguably the company's best sports and endurance watch, the Forerunner 935 gives you the full running range. Lightweight, crisp and easy to use, the Forerunner 935 is one of the most sought-after wristwatches.

It's designed to track most types of running, including sessions, and also includes Elevate's heart rate sensor, heart rate data from your runs, and 24/7 fitness tracking. And what it does with this data is truly impressive. VO2 Max data, ratings training effect from your session, training effectiveness, and recommended rest time are all derived from your heart rate variability readings.

This is, of course, in addition to the standard running data: pace, distance, etc., as well as more complex data. All heart rate zones are available while running, and you can use the ANT+ chest strap if you really need pinpoint accuracy. The Garmin optical sensor is good enough for moderate-intensity training rides, but falls off during hill sprints and other types of training. It's also compatible with Garmin's Running Dynamics Module, which provides six running dynamics including cadence, ground contact time, stride length and more.

In short, if you're serious about your work, the Forerunner 935 offers the best targeted analytics. Ultra trainers should look at the Fenix 5, while beginners will be much better off with the Forerunner 235.

Best running watch for beginners: Garmin Forerunner 35

But what about runners who just want good GPS watch without data science olympic athlete? The Garmin Forerunner 35 eschews detailed data in favor of running zones, distance and heart rate.

Like the rest of Garmin's lineup, Elevate's heart rate technology is good enough to give you an idea of steady, moderate intensities, but you won't want to use it for high intensity. However, unlike bigger, better watches, you can't attach a chest strap.

The design is fairly minimalist, but the LCD screen is ready to go during your workout and is waterproof to 5ATM - so you can wear it in the shower afterwards. There are also basic fitness tracking elements.

Even though its new Polar M200 has given it a $200 price tag, we're still going with the budget Garmin watch as it boasts most of the features you'll need while running.

TomTom Spark 3

TomTom has left the wrist tech game, but good news is that this Wareable team favorite can be had at amazing prices.

Adding to the arguments FOR buying another gadget instead of running with an app on your phone is the fact that even beginner runners need to know their heart rate, pace and mileage. And those who are ready to achieve goals and progress cannot do without an intelligent and sometimes talking assistant.

Choosing a watch is almost like buying a car. We read reviews, consult with friends, go to stores to try them out. “Marathon Academy” takes away your headaches and offers a complete guide to choosing a watch. Enjoy!

First, let's figure out what functions you need. There are a lot of them in watches, and the chosen model and its cost depend on your needs.

GPS. Thanks to it, speed and distance are measured and a route track is drawn. If you happen to be running in the forest and get lost, an advanced watch with GPS will greatly simplify the task for rescuers. It also measures height.

Heart rate monitor important for runners of all skill levels. Without understanding your pulse zone, you will not be able to give adequate load and understand the effectiveness of your training. The watch comes with or without a chest heart rate sensor, in which case you need to purchase it separately. Modern models They come with a built-in LED sensor; it measures the pulse directly on the wrist. This allows you to take measurements during the day or while you sleep, if the watch is not taken off.

VO2max. Measuring the maximum volume of oxygen consumed is an indicator of endurance. Usually the measurement is carried out in laboratory conditions, but sports watches have also learned to cope with it.

Recovery time. The device analyzes the indicators and predicts how much time is needed for rest and recovery so that the training is as effective as possible.

Calorie counter. A function that came from fitness bracelets. The calories burned during the workout are counted.

Autopause- a useful feature for those who run along the street and stop at traffic lights. The tracker pauses your run.

Virtual partner(for solo runners). Creates the illusion of jogging with a partner who runs a little faster than you.

Workout planner. Advanced watch models can create a plan for you based on your goals. But it is better to consult a live trainer.

Synchronization with a smartphone or computer. All gadgets have this function, but manufacturers have different applications.

Watch weight. Pay attention to how comfortable you are when running with the device.

Battery. The battery capacity of different models is approximately the same, but the use of GPS and Bluetooth drains the watch faster. You don't want to be left without a tracker during the marathon, do you?

Important: Heart rate monitors built into the watch (at least on top Garmin models) for full interval training unsuitable. They have long delays in readings and serious inaccuracy, up to a 15 beat difference. Therefore, it is better to purchase a separate chest heart rate monitor, the same Garmin or Polar. The latter are a little cheaper and no worse.

But the main criterion when choosing a watch is budget. Below we present the most popular models in three price categories. Prices are indicated in two versions: in Russia and from foreign sites. Official dealers in Russia have watches in stock and with a Russian guarantee. But the product is much more expensive than if bought in Europe/USA. You can order on trusted Western sites. Find a model that matches the design in Moscow stores, and then place an order on one of these sites:

ebay.com

bike24.com

bike-discount.de

wiggle.com

Despite the noticeable difference in price, remember that when buying a watch from an official representative, you also receive warranty support and service. Whereas when ordering online, you will have to wait for delivery and you will only receive a worldwide guarantee.

So, a checklist before purchasing:

With a chest heart rate monitor (the clearest way to determine your heart rate).

So that there is synchronization via Bluetooth (it’s convenient to synchronize workouts with the application).

Within your budget.

Up to 10,000 rubles

Suunto SS015855000

They have the simplest functions for monitoring heart rate with transition to pulse zones, calorie consumption, and even gives training recommendations in real time.

They have several options for colored straps, if this is important to you.

In Russia - from 7,400 rubles

Polar M200

Have all the functions for successful training: GPS, pedometer and general physical activity meter, sleep tracker, heart rate sensor. Completely waterproof and have replaceable straps.

In Russia - from 6,150 rubles

Bike 24 - from 6,000 rubles

10,000-20,000 rubles

Garmin 35

Garmin Forerunner 35 is a basic sports watch with GPS, a built-in heart rate monitor, an activity tracker that tracks sleep and calories.

In Russia - from 7,900 rubles

Bike 24 - from 6,500 rubles

Suunto Spartan Trainer Wrist HR Black

A complete running and triathlon watch with built-in optical heart rate, power metering (for running and cycling), navigation support, multisport features, extensive sports configuration and sleep tracking. They completely justify their cost.

In Russia - from 17,000 rubles

Bike 24 - from 11,000 rubles

Garmin 235

The Garmin Forerunner 235 is a great sports watch with GPS, a built-in heart rate monitor, an activity tracker that tracks sleep and calories, and a built-in accelerometer to track distance and pace while running. Designed to be worn 24 hours a day, this device will not miss the slightest detail in your activities. The proprietary software transmits notifications from the smartphone to the watch screen, and the number and colors of interchangeable straps make them suitable for both men and women.

In Russia - from 15,500 rubles

Above 20,000 rubles

Garmin 735XT HRM-Run