Should You Skip The New Garmin HRM Pro Plus Heart Rate Monitor?

[@TheImprobableIronman]

Good advice Matt. I must admit that I looked at this and could not figure out what it offers over my HRM Pro - other than the battery change. It's a pity that Garmin don't offer a battery change kit - including new O ring for the HRM Pro - that would probably solve a lot of the water proofing issues.

[@mlegrand]

I think this is kind of their solution. Slightly new product. I guess they could have just skipped the name change. 🤷‍♂️ I'm glad all of the updates are coming to your HRM Pro. I'll be very eager to see if they can move those features into a watch. Pressure is on because Apple is now doing a lot of these metrics on their Apple Watches. Hope you are well buddy!

[@renson326806]

Vaseline fixes the sealing issue.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

@@renson326806 Exactly!

[@kithinders1086]

The B-roll is SOOOO GOOOD. That is a smooth battery change system. Well done Garmin. Running power.... what does it look like, comparing an elite athlete versus a amateur? Is it super obvious? As in, if Evan and I went for a run at the same speed, would we have similar power? Or can it track efficiency, like a bike power meter? $130 for a heart rate monitor!?!?!?!? Daaaaayummm. Ground contact time. I reckon my data would amaze data people....might be 100%.

[@mlegrand]

If you were to stay with Evan, I'm guessing your power would be somewhat similar. I don't think these algorithms are super smart about pulling out the amount of actual force you're applying through each stride. It's more about the amount of power that it takes to go up hill etc. I tend to stay on the ground a fair amount also. 😂

[@codyjackson7355]

I had the Polar H-10 but switched to the HRM Pro plus. Always had issues with the polar just randomly dropping heart rate. I changed straps, batteries and it still happens a couple time a month. Anyways I've got a Garmin watch so this made the most sense and I'm happy with it so far

[@mlegrand]

Any dropouts with this? If it ends up being worse in winter, check the sensor to see if it’s too dry and not connecting well. I use this Electro gel stuff that helps. 👌

[@mija7499]

Have the same issue with my H10. Dropping from i.e. 140 to 80 a couple of times. Got crazy and even took a 24h ECG at the cardiologist. I've now ordered a HRM Pro + at amazon since it was 15 bucks cheaper than thr Pro version.

[@francescomongillo5391]

what app are you using with that? :) Because I don't have a Garming watch, so I'd use it with an app on my phone if possible. thank you

[@mlegrand]

I use it connected to a watch or bike computer. Do you use anything to track your GPS?

[@francescomongillo5391]

@@mlegrand not really, I was using the Polar connected to my phone and the polar beat app (and run with it in my pocket). Was wondering if there was the same possibility to connect it to an app and do the same

[@davidlewisohn4566]

While offline from your phone and watch (and without starting the activity on your watch first), can you connect the strap to your Peloton bike, then upload the activity to Garmin Connect afterwards? And if so, will it upload as a spinning activity with all the details or will it just be an activity with heart rate data etc?

[@mlegrand]

I don't have a Peloton bike to test this with but I'm guessing Peloton bikes can take an external HRM (you wouldn't need a HRM as fancy as this one) but then you'd want some sort of export from Peloton to Garmin Connect. Looks like there is a mobile app called RunGap to do that.

[@TheCelticClydesdaleShow]

Where I appreciate the fact that Garmin is adding som much metric gathering technology to their HR straps, I also feel like they're just driving me away from them. I personally don't delve so deeply into the metrics associated with my running. A lot of what this strap records is, essentially, useless to me. As such, knowing that there are so many decent straps that give accurate HR data at much lower price points really deters me from getting a Garmin HR strap. Well done, and kudos on yet another honest review!

[@mlegrand]

Thanks buddy!!! Yeah, I think my recommendation for most people is to go with something ultra simple. I can understand why Garmin wouldn’t want to compete on those basic feature set markets but these things do wear out and I don’t want people to over pay. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@gbilya2]

I’ve had a regular Garmin HRM Tri for 3 years and I’ve never had to replace the o ring. I change the battery every two months and no leakage!

[@mlegrand]

You're probably careful as you change it which is smart. 3 years for a HRM is pretty good. But I still think that design change was probably smart. Garmin must have had a lot of issues with that tiny part. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍

[@SetsunaJiba]

There was mention of the possibility of starting an activity on your watch but then only use the chest strap (e.g. for martial arts). Does this only work with a watch that is connected to the chest strap, or can the app figure it out? I have a Vivomove Sport, which is incompatible with a chest strap, but the HRM can be connected straight to the app too. Or does the data have to go via the watch? (It is somewhat frustrating that an activity can’t be started directly in the app.)

[@mlegrand]

I haven’t seen the HRM Pro work without starting it on a watch. I’m wondering if the Polar H10 might also be worth exploring at a slightly better price point. I think you can start an activity from a smart phone and store recorded HR data. You should double check but it might be worth considering.

[@doveerich6700]

Low key have been considering getting another HR monitor after my Pro kicked the bucket some time ago from the water leakage/damage you mentioned. Timely review for me, and as always superb video and info. Hope you and the family are doing well and Covid be gone!

[@mlegrand]

Yeah, I was sick this past week but I'm feeling a lot better 🙌 Hope your crew is healthy!

[@doveerich6700]

@@mlegrand All good here!

[@barabaszsynbarnabasza8968]

I bought one, but it was not counting my steps once I got too far from my watch. Is this how it is supposed to work?

[@mlegrand]

I don’t think I ever tested the step counting but that is a feature that this device is supposed to have.

[@vijeshpatel3736]

Thanks for this. I have an Epix. If I get this HR chest strap, where will the data be coming from whilst running ? The watch or the chest strap ? TIA

[@mlegrand]

If you connect the chest strap to the watch over Bluetooth, the HR will be coming from the chest strap.

[@vijeshpatel3736]

@@mlegrand thanks for letting me know!

[@mlegrand]

@@vijeshpatel3736 - No problem buddy. Best of luck with upcoming training! 👌

[@emimocuta1618]

Great explanation on the new features! I'm looking for a HRM that suits all three triathlon sports. What would you recommend?

[@mlegrand]

How much swimming would you be using the HRM for because Garmin makes a swim specify strap that's suited much more towards lap swimming?

[@samitalos1289]

Garmin hrm for swimming is good for Running and biking?

[@labtennis0827]

Good review. Given the unnecessary metrics, my have to take another look at the Dual. I've just started using my HRM +. My only issue is that it will disconnect after i switch my watch face back to an activity monitor or the time/HR screen. Anyone got an idea what's going on here?

[@mlegrand]

Thanks for the kind words buddy. Seems odd that it would disconnect after switching modes like that. You might want to ask Garmin about that. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@josie7188]

I just got the Powr Labs heart rate monitor and it's perfect for me. Accurate heart rate at a super low price! Great review! 👍

[@mlegrand]

Good choice! I have that one also and it's an excellent budget option. 🙌

[@VSKPS80]

If I am having a garmin forerunner 265 what is the advantage of having HRM plus?Thanks in advance

[@mlegrand]

If you're just using this for running or biking, I'd say this HRM Pro Plus is overkill. That's just my humble opinion. But the running dynamics should be more accurate with this on. Heart rate should also be a bit more accurate if it's worn correctly. There's benefits to those who want to track heart rate while swimming or sync heart rate to their watches later. The example often used is fighting activities or sparring where you don't want to have a watch on but still want to track heart rate. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍

[@gabinaguayo747]

Hello! I really appreciate your videos, they've been very useful to decide on my watch! I just got a FR955 based on multiple recommendations for Garmin and reviews and comparisons of that watch, and since I basically *require* a chest strap (since I do Crossfit and often can't wear the watch during workouts), I've been looking at both the Polar H10 and the Garmin Pro Plus. I was trying to give the H10 the benefit of the doubt (because of it's price and replaceable parts) but it seems like the Garmin Pro Plus is better since it can store the workouts when not in range of the watch and sync seamlessly on Garmin app without needing to use Polar apps or losing any data. Am I missing anything or any reason not to get the Garmin Pro Strap? Can you give me your advice please? Thanks again!

[@mlegrand]

Hi Gabin, yes the Garmin HRM Pro would work well for your use case. There’s a channel called @fitgearhunter that you should definitely checkout. 👌

[@gabinaguayo747]

@@mlegrand Hi Matt! Thanks, I actually also asked him about it earlier today, since he clearly is biased towards Garmin (as am I) and also does CrossFit haha. I think I don't have any other option other than the Garmin strap. Thanks again!

[@osint6372]

Works great if you are in the Garmin Ecosystem.......Good , sturdy and accurate.....My Wahoo sometimes struggles to even find my OWN Wahoo kicker indoor trainer......

[@mlegrand]

Ugg, that's so frustrating. I've actually had some really good luck with some super affordable HRM. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpevd3WBd72Lb6M

[@txcrna]

Spot on review! Love it, thanks!

[@mlegrand]

You're very welcome Greg. Thanks for checking this one out. 👌

[@hugoguerra2231]

Glad Garmin have the HRM-pro..because the Fénix 5 (for example ) is more accurate only on Run activities, otherwise its rubbish..it very short for what it was a 500euros sportswatch.. Measuring badly the HR, makes every other measures wrong, like Calories, VO2 etc... I was thinking on buying the Tactix Delta, but I'm afraid it only works well on Running or walking activities on not on other like Crossfit, HIIT, Strength etc

[@mlegrand]

The newer Garmin’s seem to have pretty good heart rate accuracy. But nothing beats a chest strap. Especially when you’re talking about CrossFit and strength training which are notoriously hard for wrist based optical heart rate monitors. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍

[@renson326806]

This is great and all apart from the fact that it can’t be sold in Australia now due to the battery cover change. I’ll just stick with my HRM TRI.

[@mlegrand]

Yeah, what's the black market for heart rate monitors look like in Australia? 😂 Thank you for checking this one out Simon. I really appreciate it. 👍

[@renson326806]

@@mlegrand I tried to buy one and imagine my surprise when it wouldn’t ship to Australia (with the warning popping up as to why). It proved a blessing because I’m a long time Stryd user and just got a new Forerunner 955. Garmin now take power from the HR strap and it is very different from Stryd readings. So I brought a Tickr.

[@michaelpennington5111]

What heart rate monitor would you recommend for cycling?

[@mlegrand]

I’d honestly go with something super cheap. I made a video here on this channel about two affordable options but at about $40 or less they’re all basically the same thing.

[@julianram03]

I have the garmin pro plus, only down side part is that it cuased me chest scaring, chafing....

[@mlegrand]

That’s a pretty big downside. Ouch!

[@matthewmyers7826]

I killed both my HRM Pro and Polar h10 in less than a year of use each. I think I'm going to give this one a try.

[@mlegrand]

What kind of activities are you doing mostly? I posted a video a while back about some really cheap options that are just as accurate. Either way, let me know what you think of whatever you end up with. Thanks Matthew!

[@matthewmyers7826]

@@mlegrand trail/ultra running and cycling. The extra $50 probably isn't worth it for the metrics that I've not really used other than to stress over why my stride isn't even between legs, ha! Thought I'd use power but didn't find it was very useful, but maybe it's improved.

[@albertdee1139]

Currently in need of a new hrm, what would you say the best hrm stap for cycling would be?

[@mlegrand]

I have a few videos to check out on the channel but it'll depend on if you need it to output HR data to multiple bluetooth devices. For me that might be something like an iPad running Zwift and a cycling computer. But if you just need a normal HR monitor that sends data to one device (or ANT+), I'd personally save a lot of money and grab something in the $40 range. I have three that float around my house and it's not a big deal if they wear out or break. Here's a video where I talk about the accuracy of cheap HR monitors: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpevd3WBd72Lb6M

[@mohongzhi]

of course, HRM-dual!!! Or a wahoo tickr will do all jobs.

[@sudhanshu7115]

I don't want to buy their smart watch so can i use it only with my android phone

[@mlegrand]

It would work with any watch that can connect to an external heart rate monitor or you can pair it with an android phone running the Garmin connect app. See this for more details: support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=Woj2q6Bv2i0LqAk7wMwUiA Is there any particular reason you're going with this heart rate monitor? Seems like there would be a lot of other more affordable options depending on what you're using it for.

[@mohongzhi]

The only difference between them is the ring colour, and the battery chamber. Course the software update already made pro and pro plus completely same, so no more difference.

[@mlegrand]

Yep, not a huge update here. I think the real question is who needs this one and who should skip it. Thanks Hongzhi!

[@Caseylawton]

What's better than pro? Pro PLUS! God I hate marketing people

[@mlegrand]

Ha!!!! Next year they do have the "Pro Plus Max" coming out. Tell no one. 😂

[@bonn1771]

This is nice for battery replacement Great video

[@mlegrand]

Thank you!!

[@bronsolino6274]

Do i need a garmin watch?

[@mlegrand]

Technically you don't. You can use the smart phone app. Do you currently have a watch? What are you hoping to use this heart rate monitor to do?

[@bronsolino6274]

I would use it to connect to my Garmin explorer 2 navi so I can always see my HR on the navi when on the bike and later. I also think the calorie counting function on the Navi would be more precise with a heart rate... The thing is I also have an Apple watch that monitors my HR. I think the HRM Pro Plus would be more precise but without a Garmin watch I can't access all the features so I dont know if I should spend 100 bucks.. @@mlegrand

[@williammitchell6921]

The ease of battery changing is worth the upgrade.

[@mlegrand]

Yeah, that was a smart fix. The engineers listened and solved the problem. 👏🏻 Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍

[@britpowell]

And he's back with another relevant review that will probably convince me to buy something new! :p My old HRM Pro has been acting up

[@mlegrand]

Ha!!! Maybe try a cheaper option? Do you use the extra metrics from the HRM Pro?

[@britpowell]

@@mlegrand I bought it for using in the pool (Triathlete) but can't get it to connect to pull swim data anyways so a bit of a lost cause.

[@mlegrand]

@@britpowell - Odd that it won’t connect. That’s frustrating. I’d reach out to Garmin before giving up.

[@mlegrand]

@@britpowell - Also, great channel. Can’t wait to see you grow your own community there. 👌

[@britpowell]

@@mlegrand definitely!

[@BobJones-ib4xh]

Yes. Skip it. Over complicates wanting to work out. My polar is practically plug and play and this damn Garmin requires a watch to give u real time information. Returned.

[@mlegrand]

Yeah, I've had really good luck with some much more affordable options. Thanks for the feedback Bob! 👌

[@fearless5533]

I have a problem with gps am my region, so i have to run within gps at all, pace and distance is totally incorrect, is it a good decision to buy it for correct pace and distance data?

[@mlegrand]

Maybe. Why is the GPS not good in your region?

[@fearless5533]

@@mlegrand because of the war, Russia

[@mlegrand]

@@fearless5533 - Are they jamming GPS signals? Or spoofing location data? I’d be curious to see if a watch with multiband GPS would be effected by that. But yes, something like this might help. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@fearless5533]

@@mlegrand you can say that your geo-location is transferred to another point, so you can run like 20 km for maybe a minute xd. And as i've read i need to have a gps signal to calibrate a pace, and distance data on strap or i can do it without a gps?

[@mlegrand]

@@fearless5533 - I’ve never tried any sort of calibration of distance with this. I wonder if some sort of Stryd footpod would be better. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TriFitwithTimandAmanda]

Oh not in Australia? You know more about our laws than we do 😂 We both have the Pro and need to change the battery so will hopefully not get water damage

[@mlegrand]

You’ll probably be fine. But yes you guys have a new law about coin cell batteries. They don’t want people eating them basically. Here in the states they encourage it. 🍽️ 🤦‍♂️

[@TriFitwithTimandAmanda]

@@mlegrand thanks for letting us know - we were thinking those batteries looked pretty tasty 🤤

[@mlegrand]

@@TriFitwithTimandAmanda - 😂

[@PoetWithPace]

HURRAH! Finally after 7 years of moaning from me and many others, Garmin finally now have a simple way of changing the battery 🥳🥳🥳

[@mlegrand]

About time! 😂 Yeah, glad they got this fixed. 👍

[@PoetWithPace]

@@mlegrand and would you believe i got a HRM at London marathon expo! How serendipitous!

[@vaahtoperse18]

Garmin makes the worst hrm monitors (I have hrm pro). My heart rate starts to drop during the run and then it goes back up. This happens about every 10 minutes. Garmin's support pages claim that I should wear a cotton shirt. What a joke. A cotton shirt is not intended for running.

[@mlegrand]

All of these chest straps operate under the same basic technology premise. I’d try a cheap affordable heart rate strap and see if you see the exact same dropouts. If you don’t, you could place more blame on Garmin. Otherwise, you could try adding electro gel to the straps to insure a strong connection to your skin before runs. Let me know what you figure out and best of luck!

[@derspen]

The device is top, the strap is very weak. Breaks in no time

[@mlegrand]

I haven’t had any issues with the strap personally but it’s a real shame to have an expensive HRM like this break.

[@derspen]

@@mlegrand I was really enjoying it, especially with open water swimming. I am trying to figure out now which HRM to purchase.

[@mlegrand]

@@derspen - I typically recommend people go for something super affordable but I don't think that's going to cut it for open water swimming. I would look at the Garmin HRM Swim or maybe the Polar H10 if you want to switch brands. Best of luck buddy! 👍

[@derspen]

@@mlegrand thank you for this advice. I will purchase a HRM for my running and biking and a separate one swimming. You have been of great help.

[@mlegrand]

@@derspen If you want to you could get something more affordable for running and biking. I made a video about some affordable options a while back on this channel. Something to think about. 👍