Best Heart Rate Monitors for HIIT

Introduction

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has surged in popularity due to its ability to burn calories quickly, improve cardiovascular fitness, and boost metabolism. However, to maximize results, monitoring your heart rate accurately during intense intervals is crucial.

This is where heart rate monitors come in. HIIT workouts demand precision, reliability, and comfort, so enthusiasts often search for the best heart rate monitors for HIIT to optimize performance. In this review, we analyze top monitors, their features, accuracy, pros and cons, and give a detailed comparison to help you choose the right device.

Key Features & Specifications

1. Garmin HRM-Pro

• Sensor Type: Chest strap with electrocardiogram (ECG) accuracy
• Connectivity: ANT+, Bluetooth, compatible with Garmin devices
• Battery Life: Up to 1 year (replaceable)
• Water Resistance: 50m
• Additional Features: Running dynamics, calorie tracking, advanced heart rate variability

2. Polar H10

• Sensor Type: Chest strap with ECG-level precision
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+, multi-device pairing
• Battery Life: Up to 400 hours
• Water Resistance: 30m
• Additional Features: Compatible with apps like Strava, supports fitness testing and swimming

3. Wahoo Tickr X

• Sensor Type: Chest strap optical sensor
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+, iOS & Android compatibility
• Battery Life: 500 hours
• Water Resistance: Sweatproof, splash resistant
• Additional Features: Motion analytics, indoor cycling compatibility, memory storage

Pros & Cons

✅ Garmin HRM-Pro

• ✅ Extremely accurate for high-intensity intervals

• ✅ Compatible with Garmin devices and watches

• ✅ Provides advanced running metrics and heart rate variability

• ✅ Comfortable for long-term use

• ❌ Pricey compared to entry-level monitors

• ❌ Some users report chest strap discomfort initially

✅ Polar H10

• ✅ ECG-grade accuracy for HIIT and endurance workouts

• ✅ Long-lasting battery and multi-device connectivity

• ✅ Lightweight and comfortable strap design

• ✅ Swim-friendly sensor

• ❌ Limited to certain app integrations

• ❌ Strap may stretch over time

✅ Wahoo Tickr X

• ✅ Excellent motion tracking and memory storage

• ✅ Affordable and versatile for multiple workouts

• ✅ Bluetooth connectivity for real-time app tracking

• ❌ Accuracy slightly lower than Polar H10 during extreme sprints

• ❌ Strap may slip during intense sweating

My Experience / Testing Results

During a 6-week HIIT program, I tested these heart rate monitors:

• Garmin HRM-Pro: Outstanding accuracy in tabata and sprint intervals. Paired seamlessly with my Garmin Forerunner watch, offering real-time heart rate zones and calorie burn data. Chest strap initially tight but became comfortable after adjustment.
• Polar H10: Provided very precise readings and paired with multiple apps like Strava and Polar Beat. Perfect for both HIIT and swimming sessions. Strap design was comfortable and stable during jump squats and burpees.
• Wahoo Tickr X: Easy to set up and lightweight. Motion analytics helped track performance during complex HIIT movements, though heart rate peaks were slightly delayed during explosive sprints.

Summary: For pure accuracy, Polar H10 and Garmin HRM-Pro are top choices. Wahoo Tickr X is ideal for multi-sport versatility and budget-friendly performance.

Who Should Buy This Product?

• Garmin HRM-Pro: Fitness enthusiasts and runners who already use Garmin devices and want advanced analytics alongside HIIT tracking.
• Polar H10: Ideal for HIIT lovers, swimmers, and multi-device users seeking precise ECG heart rate monitoring.
• Wahoo Tickr X: Best for affordable multi-sport tracking, especially for those who want motion analytics without breaking the bank.

Comparisons

Analysis: Garmin HRM-Pro excels in metrics and analytics, Polar H10 is accurate and versatile, and Wahoo Tickr X balances cost, convenience, and multi-sport use.

Price & Value for Money

• Garmin HRM-Pro: $99–$129 – Premium price but justified by advanced metrics and longevity
• Polar H10: $79–$99 – Mid-range price with accurate performance and multi-device pairing
• Wahoo Tickr X: $49–$69 – Budget-friendly, versatile, ideal for casual HIIT enthusiasts

Value Summary: Polar H10 offers the best value for accuracy vs. price. Garmin HRM-Pro is for those seeking in-depth analytics, and Wahoo Tickr X is a great budget option.

Final Verdict

After testing these monitors in high-intensity interval training sessions, here’s the verdict:

• Garmin HRM-Pro: 4.7/5 ⭐ – Best for advanced users and Garmin ecosystem fans
• Polar H10: 4.8/5 ⭐ – Most accurate and versatile for HIIT, swimming, and multi-device use
• Wahoo Tickr X: 4.5/5 ⭐ – Affordable and great for multi-sport enthusiasts

Choosing the right monitor depends on your workout style, budget, and tracking needs. For accuracy and versatility, Polar H10 is the standout choice, while Garmin HRM-Pro is perfect for those invested in Garmin devices.

Check our Top 10 Heart Rate Monitors for Fitness for more options and comparisons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are chest strap monitors more accurate than wrist-based monitors?
Yes, chest strap monitors like Polar H10 and Garmin HRM-Pro provide ECG-level accuracy, especially during HIIT.

2. Can I use these monitors for swimming?
Yes, Polar H10 and Garmin HRM-Pro are waterproof and suitable for pool workouts.

3. How often do I need to replace the battery?
Garmin HRM-Pro lasts about 1 year, Polar H10 up to 400 hours, and Wahoo Tickr X can reach 500 hours of use.

4. Do these monitors work with fitness apps?
Yes, all three are compatible with apps like Strava, Zwift, MyFitnessPal, and others depending on device pairing.

5. Which monitor is best for beginners?
Wahoo Tickr X is ideal for beginners due to ease of use and affordability.

6. Can these monitors measure heart rate variability (HRV)?
Yes, Garmin HRM-Pro offers advanced HRV tracking, while others provide basic heart rate metrics.