Which is more accurate: display panel of elliptical or heart rate monitor?

N

New Daddy

0
I just started working out on an elliptical - Octane Q35. I also wear a heart rate monitor - Suunto t3. While both display the calories consumed, the numbers are vastly different - the elliptical's Kcal is almost always twice the Sunnto's. I understand that both employ mathematical algorithms. The elliptical has the resistance that the user has to work against (plus the age and weight), while the heart rate monitor has the heart rate (plus the age and weight).

So which one is more accurate? I'm very puzzled over the large variance between the two.
 
Honestly? I wouldn't trust either. There are so many other factors that determine your energy expenditure that it would be impossible to come close to calculating it short of putting you into a ergonomic chamber and hooking you up to a bunch of tubes.

Since the elliptical takes the resistance into equation, I would assume that it's somewhat closer, but still, I wouldn't put a lot of faith in it.
 
The best heart rate monitor for your elliptical training is the one that includes all the features you need and displays them in an easy to use way.

While many elliptical machines come with integrated heart rate monitors on the handle bars, these monitors are not very accurate.

Consider the feature sets that match with your normal fitness routine. If you generally do set times at set intensities, then a very basic heart rate monitor will be best for you.

If you incorporate target heart rates and interval training, go for a feature rich monitor with a wireless chest strap.
 
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