Why use a heart rate monitor?  Is it yet another worthless gadget that exercise equipment manufacturers are selling as part of their plan to squeeze more money out of your pockets?  Or does it have real value?

Thankfully, in this case, there’s no consumer deception at work.  A heart rate monitor is a  valuable tool and should be included in your fitness lifestyle.

Here are three reasons why you should consider adding one to your exercise routine.

1) Track the intensity of your workouts.

The most fundamental reason to use a monitor is to track whether you are exercising in your target heart rate zone — a range defined as between working out too hard, and not hard enough.  For most of us, our target heart rate zone lies between 50% and 85% of our maximum heart rate, and is the territory in which efficient calorie and fat burning takes place.  

With a basic monitor strapped to your chest, wrist, or finger, it’s easy to know whether you’re in the “zone,” or if you need to push harder, or ease off a bit.

2) Chart your progress.

When you’re new to exercise — or, like many of us, are just getting back into the groove after a long hiatus — your heart has to work extra hard to keep up with your body’s need for blood and oxygen.  As you continue to work out, however, your cardiovascular fitness improves — meaning, your heart doesn’t have to pump as rapidly to sustain your exercise sessions.

Armed with a quality heart rate monitor, it’s a simple matter to chart your progression.  When jogging 20 minutes on the treadmill used to get your heart rate up to 140 beats per minute (bpm), and you can now perform the same workout at 125 bpm, you know for certain that you’re in better shape.  

And you also know that it’s time to kick up the intensity of your workout!

3) Stay motivated.

Having actual numbers to gauge your progress is a powerful motivator.  You worked out on the stationary bike at 135 bpm this month — can you get that number down to 120 bpm over the next three months?  

This kind of useful feedback can keep you excited about your fitness routine, and inspire you to set new goals. (Of course, don’t go overboard, and be sure to keep your physician informed about your activities.)

There is a growing variety of quality heart rate monitors on the market today.  Polar, Timex, Mio, Omron, and Reebok are among the most popular brands.  Shop around, read reviews, and pick the model that best matches your lifestyle.  You’ll be sure to reap many benefits as you continue along your path to better fitness and health.