Looking to fill the gap for those without a heart rate monitor on the wrist, a new startup will give exercisers the biometric tracking feature from a smartphone armband instead.
Shapeheart has in-built monitoring that can sync with iOS and Android running apps like Strava and Endomondo, meaning those who don't have a GPS running watch on their wrist don't miss out on the insights.
Read this: Heart rate monitors - chest strap vs. wrist
The startup behind it also claims the device will last for around 25 hours on one charge and is able to be removed from the strap. While the Shapeheart armband possesses the smart feature, it's also magnetic so you can easily snap on and off when you need to change your playlist or text someone back.
It's currently doing the Kickstarter rounds and looking to raise €35,000, with backers able to pick up an early bird special on the device for €69 — or around when converted.
This is a healthy 42% snip off the retail price, which means it will hover around the €120 mark when it eventually completes funding and moves onto the next phase. That's around the same price as what you'd pay for a heart rate monitor chest strap.
We'd be keen to find out how the optical tech fares against other devices using the same light based monitoring but for armband wearers, this could well be a winner.
How we test
Conor moved to Wareable Media Group in 2017, initially covering all the latest developments in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and VR. He made a name for himself writing about trying out translation earbuds on a first date and cycling with a wearable airbag, as well as covering the industry’s latest releases.
Following a stint as Reviews Editor at Pocket-lint, Conor returned to Wareable Media Group in 2022 as Editor-at-Large. Conor has become a wearables expert, and helps people get more from their wearable tech, via Wareable's considerable how-to-based guides.
He has also contributed to British GQ, Wired, Metro, The Independent, and The Mirror.