Heart Rate Monitor accuracy?

GossInABox

So, I picked up a heart rate monitor and used it for the first time today. I mostly exercise using the Xbox 360's Your Shape game and do some cardio a few times a week with that. I know the reputation has a reputation for having a low calorie count, so I was hoping for a more accurate measurement. I put in my height and weight and the Heart Rate Monitor says I'm burning over twice the calories that the game is telling me. I feel like it's too good to be true.

I only joined MFP about two weeks ago and haven't been very good with keeping up with my exercise goals, though I still managed to work out a few times a week. I just usually had my legs give out on me before I made it past 20 minutes. XD But I'm working on that.

I've been very good about eating at a deficit, though I came closer to meeting my calorie goals this week (but still under) then I had since I began. I weighed myself this morning and found I gained 2lbs (and I have a lot to lose). At first I wondered if it was because I was eating too much. Before that I'd lost six pounds in about a week and a half with a larger deficit, but I hadn't expected to gain when I was still eating at a deficit. But now I wonder if it was because I wasn't eating enough due to greatly underestimating the calories I've been burning?

So, I guess my question is how closely do you pay attention to what a heart rate monitor says you're burning?

Swissmiss

If your HRM is programed right then it should be the most accurate of the two. Does your game take into consideration your sex, age and height?

normh545

i usualy go just under goal but dont use exersize extras and i am losing about 2lb a week at the minute. you need to remember only to weigh your self same day of the week and the same time (just out of bed)

dad106

What kind of HRM do you have and does have it have a chest strap?

If it doesn't have a chest strap.. it's not going to be that accurate.

For the most accurate calorie estimations, you need a chest strap and to able to enter all your info.. age,weight, height, and gender.