The heart rate is the rate of contractions over a given time period, usually defined in beats per minute. Heart rate monitors that provide continuous heart rate readings rather than a single point measurement require wearing a chest strap. Continuous accurate heart measurement is an important part of all aerobic exercise and rehabilitation programs. Heart rate monitors typically comprise an electrode belt, a circumferential band and a display unit at the wrist. The electrodes measure the electric pulse of the heart and transmit the measurement result to the electronics unit via a conductor combining the electrode and the electronics unit. A heart rate monitor typically comprises a display comprising the actual display element enabling a measured heart rate level to be shown. Some heartbeat monitor designs use wireless data transmission from a sensor-transmitter unit to a display unit. This type of design allows optimal and flexible positioning of both units while not limiting a person's freedom of movement.
