Garmin HRM 600: Advanced Wearable for Training and Analysis

Key Takeaways

1. Smartwatches commonly include optical sensors for heart rate tracking, but wrist readings can lag during quick fluctuations.
2. Garmin’s HRM 600 is designed specifically for serious athletes, offering features like heart rate variability and advanced running metrics.
3. The HRM 600 includes a unique Step Speed Loss feature for assessing running efficiency, available only on the Forerunner 970.
4. The HRM 600 strap can be used independently of a smartwatch for various activities, including boxing and climbing.
5. The device has a rechargeable battery lasting up to two months and is priced at $169.99, available from May 21.

There are nearly no smartwatches these days that lack an optical sensor to track your heart rate. When you combine heart rate with speed, easily measured via GPS, it gives a pretty detailed insight into performance, especially for activities like running or cycling. From what we’ve seen, measuring heart rate on the wrist usually works quite well, but if there are quick and noticeable fluctuations in heart rate, the readings can be slow or lagging. This tends to impact serious runners and athletes who push their limits during training.

Designed for Serious Athletes

Garmin has designed the HRM 600 with these dedicated athletes in mind. This heart rate monitor not only tracks heart rate but also looks at heart rate variability. It assesses heart rate over time and examines how individual heartbeats differ from each other. It also includes advanced metrics for running efficiency (known as Running Dynamics) that work in conjunction with a compatible smartwatch. The device has a feature called Step Speed Loss, which evaluates the decrease in speed caused by ground contact; however, this feature is exclusive to the new Forerunner 970. Runners are encouraged to reduce this metric by refining their running technique. Stride length, ground contact duration, and vertical movement can also be evaluated with other models aside from just the Forerunner 970.

Versatile Usage

The HRM 600 strap is versatile and can be utilized without a smartwatch, making it suitable for activities like boxing, martial arts, or even climbing. The rechargeable battery boasts an impressive life of up to two months.

This model is priced at $169.99 and will be available for purchase starting on May 21.

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