HRM vs. machine calorie question

ybba12490
ybba12490 Posts: 252
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
I just used my new heart rate monitor for the first time. I played racquetball for 30 minutes and then went on the elliptical for 15 minutes. Usually when I'm on the elliptical for 15 mins the machine says I burn 150 calories, yet my HRM said I only burned 20.... 20!!!! However the elliptical I use does not have censors to place my hands on. I find that so hard to believe. And it said I only burnt 35 during racquetball. Sooo should I believe the machine or my HRM? I can't believe the difference.

Replies

  • mislove68
    mislove68 Posts: 240
    Does your HRM have a chest strap? if not then thats the problem!
  • ybba12490
    ybba12490 Posts: 252
    Does your HRM have a chest strap? if not then thats the problem!

    ugh no! I forgot to mention that, it just looks like a watch
  • ma3145tt
    ma3145tt Posts: 2 Member
    Yeah, unless you were standing still the entire time, your HRM has an issue.
  • amymeenieminymo
    amymeenieminymo Posts: 2,394 Member
    Yeah that cannot be accurate. I burned 35 calories just walking at a pretty easy pace in about 5 minutes on a treadmill, so going for 15 on an elliptical would burn WAY more. See if you can take it back and invest in one with a chest strap, way more accurate and worth every penny (I have the Polar F4, cost about $80-100).
  • ybba12490
    ybba12490 Posts: 252
    I wasn't moving my arms when I was on the elliptical, maybe thats what it is? I can't run on it without holding on lol
  • Sparksfly
    Sparksfly Posts: 470 Member
    If it doesn't have a chest strap, it's pretty much useless! :-( so sorry!

    Invest in one with a chest strap, or I deduct about 30% off of the machine's readings....usually is pretty in line with my HRM with strap.
  • ybba12490
    ybba12490 Posts: 252
    Thanks everyone! I'm going to use it once more tomorrow and if its still not working properly, I'll return it
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