Heart Rate Monitors and Sports Watches

You train hard, but do you really have insight into your progress? A sports watch with heart rate measurement shows you exactly where you stand and where you can grow. Whether you are working on your pace, endurance or recovery, with the right data on your wrist you train smarter, safer and more purposefully. From recreational runners to triathletes and marathon enthusiasts: our sports watches are specifically selected to help you get the maximum out of every kilometre.

The range runs from entry-level GPS sports watches for beginning runners to comprehensive multisport watches for triathletes who want to track swimming, cycling and running in one device. The main selection criteria are GPS accuracy, the heart rate measurement method, battery life, the available sports profiles and compatibility with training apps such as Strava, Garmin Connect or Polar Flow. Also view our range of separate heart rate monitors and chest straps if you want to supplement your existing watch with more accurate heart rate measurement.

Why train with a sports watch?

Running on feeling gives you an experience but no insight. A sports watch transforms every training session into data: you see exactly how fast you went, in which heart rate zone you trained, how much recovery you need and whether you are on track for your next race. That makes the difference between training and smart training.

For triathletes a sports watch is even more valuable. One device that tracks all three disciplines, automatically switches sports profile and after the race gives you a complete overview of your splits, heart rate data and energy consumption. Also read our triathlon beginner's guide for more information about what you need as a starting triathlete.

Which sports watch suits you?

The right choice depends on your sport, your training goal and how extensively you want to track your data. The following scenarios help you quickly find the right direction.

You are a recreational runner and want to track your distance, pace and heart rate: An entry GPS sports watch with wrist heart rate measurement is sufficient. Simple to use, affordable and gives you direct insight into the most relevant training data. Choose a model with a battery life of at least 20 hours for longer endurance runs.

You are training for a half or full marathon and want to train specifically on heart rate zones: Choose a sports watch with extensive heart rate zone monitoring, training load measurement and recovery advice. Models with VO2max estimation and training plans help you structure your build-up and prevent overtraining.

You are a triathlete and want to track swimming, cycling and running in one watch: Choose a multisport sports watch with automatic sports profile switching and open water swimming support. Triathlon-specific models also register transition times and give you a complete overview per discipline after the race. Also read our triathlon distances blog for more information about the different race formats.

You want your running data to automatically synchronise with Strava: Most modern sports watches support automatic synchronisation with Strava, Garmin Connect, Polar Flow and other training platforms. Check when purchasing which apps the desired model supports.

You want the most accurate heart rate measurement for interval training and HIIT: Combine a sports watch with an external chest strap heart rate monitor. A chest strap measures via ECG directly the electrical activity of the heart and responds immediately to heart rate changes, where wrist measurements at high intensity can lag slightly.

You also run in rain or want to wear the watch while swimming: Check the water resistance level of the desired model. For running in rain a splash-proof housing suffices. For swimming you need a model specifically suitable for underwater use, at minimum WR50 or higher.

Sports watch or separate heart rate monitor?

A sports watch combines GPS tracking, heart rate measurement and training data in one device on your wrist. Ideal for runners and triathletes who want to track all data with one device.

A separate chest strap heart rate monitor measures more accurately than the wrist sensor of a sports watch, especially at high intensity and interval training. You can also pair a chest strap with your existing sports watch via Bluetooth or ANT+ for more accurate heart rate registration.

For most recreational runners the wrist heart rate measurement of a good sports watch is more than sufficient. However, if you want maximum accuracy for race preparation or interval training, always combine with a chest strap. Also view our complete range of running equipment for all accessories you need as a runner.

Which features are important for runners?

GPS and satellite accuracy

GPS is the basis for distance and pace measurement. Models that combine multiple satellite systems, such as GPS, GLONASS and Galileo, give more accurate results in built-up areas, forests and mountainous terrain. For trail runners and triathletes multi-system GPS is a clear added value.

Heart rate measurement: wrist or chest strap

Wrist heart rate measurement is comfortable and suitable for endurance runs and recreational use. A chest strap is more accurate and responds faster to heart rate changes, essential for interval training and races. Many sports watches support pairing with an external chest strap via Bluetooth or ANT+.

Battery life

For endurance runners, trail runners and triathletes battery life is a critical criterion. Check the battery life in GPS mode specifically. Marketing figures often apply to an energy-saving mode; the actual GPS battery life is generally shorter.

Running dynamics

Advanced sports watches measure alongside heart rate and GPS also your running efficiency via cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation and ground contact time. This data helps you identify technical errors that lead to overloading and injuries.

Training plans and recovery monitoring

Models with built-in training plans and recovery advice help you structure your build-up and prevent overtraining. Features such as sleep monitoring, HRV measurement and training load give you a complete picture of your recovery status.

App integration

Synchronise your training sessions automatically with Strava, Garmin Connect, Polar Flow or other platforms. This lets you track your progress, analyse routes and compare your performances with previous sessions.

Our advice: Choose a sports watch that suits your current level but also offers room to grow. A watch that gives you just enough functions now but is already too limited in a year is a missed investment. Are you thinking about doing triathlon? Then choose a multisport model directly. Also view our range of running shoes for a complete running kit that matches your new watch.

Who are sports watches and heart rate monitors suitable for?

• Recreational runners who want to track their distance, pace and heart rate for more insight and motivation.
• Competitive runners who train specifically on heart rate zones, VO2max and training load for a half or full marathon.
• Triathletes who want to track all three disciplines in one device with automatic sports profile switching.
• Trail runners who need accurate GPS tracking and long battery life for longer routes in nature.
• Athletes in rehabilitation who want to accurately monitor their heart rate within safe heart rate zones while building up their fitness.

Combine your sports watch with the right running jackets and running accessories for a complete and well-equipped training setup.

Need help with your choice?

We will be happy to help you. You can reach our specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about sports watches and heart rate monitors

What is the difference between GPS, GLONASS and Galileo?

These are three different satellite systems with which a sports watch determines your position. GPS is the most widely used system. GLONASS is a Russian system and Galileo a European system. Sports watches that combine multiple systems give more accurate results, especially in urban environments, forests and mountainous terrain where satellite reception can be variable.

Is wrist heart rate measurement accurate enough for running?

For recreational use and endurance runs wrist heart rate measurement is generally sufficiently accurate. For interval training, HIIT and races where your heart rate fluctuates rapidly a chest strap is more accurate. A chest strap responds directly to heart rate changes while a wrist measurement can show a small delay at high intensity.

Can I use my sports watch for both running and triathlon?

That depends on the model. Multisport sports watches support multiple sports profiles including swimming, cycling and running and can automatically switch between disciplines during a triathlon. Entry-level running watches generally have fewer sports profiles and are not always suitable for use in the swimming pool or open water.

How long does the battery last during a triathlon?

The battery life in GPS mode differs considerably per model. Entry models last 15 to 30 hours, premium multisport models 40 to 80 hours or longer. Always check the battery life in GPS mode specifically, as the stated standby time says little about use during a race.

Can I pair an external chest strap with my sports watch?

With most modern sports watches this is possible via Bluetooth or ANT+. The chest strap sends accurate heart rate data to the watch which tracks all other training data. Check which protocol your watch supports before purchasing a chest strap.

Which training apps work together with sports watches?

Most sports watches synchronise automatically with Strava. In addition, brand-specific apps such as Garmin Connect and Polar Flow have extensive analysis possibilities for training load, recovery and progress. Check when purchasing which apps the desired model supports.