FINIS has recently released the AquaPulse, an underwater heart rate monitor for swimmers which promises to be more practical than old-fashioned chest straps and watches. The device itself is attached to the goggle strap, and an infrared sensor is attached to the earlobe, measuring the heart beat by capillary activity.
The heart rate is announced by a voice which is transmitted to the inner ear using bone conduction technology. Cost for this little gadget? $150, well worth it if it will help you win in the Olympics. An overview of the features from the press release:
* Audible Heart Rate in Real Time – Heart rate is announced while you move; no need to pause and look at a watch
* Bone Conduction Audio Announcement – Verbally conveys your heart rate through your cheekbone into your inner ear; no ear buds needed (Humans normally hear through air conduction, but because there is no air underneath the water, bone conduction provides the clearest sound quality possible)
* Infrared Sensor Technology – The Infrared sensor measures the light pulses due to capillary blood flow in the skin and calculates the number of beats per minute (b/m) that the body is working
* Instant Heart Rate Button – Push the “Instant Heart Rate” button to hear your last recorded heart rate reading
* Heart Rate Fluctuation Monitoring – Audible updates given at selected time increments; if there is no change in your heart rate you will not hear an update
* Announcement Increments – Set the device to announce every 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes or 5 minutes
* Waterproof – Made for swimmers by swimmers; all buttons are waterproof
* Easy Attachment – No chest strap or watches needed; just slip inside your goggle strap
* Lithium-Ion Battery – Lasts from 5 to 8+ hours depending on interval setting; gives an audible low battery announcement when low
* USB Charging – To recharge, plug the AquaPulse™ Heart Rate Monitor directly into the USB port on a computer or USB wall charger
Product page: Aquapulse…
(hat tip: Engadget)