How can HRM show 330 cal burn elliptical only 153?

tamivroma
tamivroma Posts: 15
in Fitness and Exercise
I have a Polar FT7 HRM. Out of curiosity I wanted to compare what it said as far as calories burned to what the elliptical said. Results were shocking...HRM said 300 cals burned....elliptical only 153...what gives? Why such a huge disparity? It would seem to me HRM would be more accurate because it is measuring by heart rate. Any thoughts?

Replies

  • Artaxia
    Artaxia Posts: 185
    HRM would be more accurate. The machine is just giving a generic average.
  • iRun_Butterfly
    iRun_Butterfly Posts: 483 Member
    Most HRM's you can program in your current weight, activity level, etc so it can better calculate your burn based on your measured heart rate. The machines at the gym give kind of a generic reading. My HRM always shows a higher burn than gym equipment. I've never doubted it.
  • Kestrel45
    Kestrel45 Posts: 133
    Yeah I have the same Polar HRM and I track the calories it displays instead of the machines. I find some machines like the elliptical, crosstrainer and bikes are significantly different than what the HRM shows and mostly display more calories burned than my HRM, while others like the treadmill, stairmaster and rowing machine are very accurate. But seriously don't worry about it, the HRM gives a good enough estimate of calories burned and it won't make a difference in your weight loss. I've had no problems losing weight with tracking from the HRM.
  • tamivroma
    tamivroma Posts: 15
    Thanks so much all. I did find this article which was somewhat confusing but person obviously knows what he is talking about. Going to go make sure all my info is updated in my HRM!

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/Azdak/view/the-real-facts-about-hrms-and-calories-what-you-need-to-know-before-purchasing-an-hrm-or-using-one-21472

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