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CHAPTER 3: PROGRAMMING & OPERATION
caution:
The safety key must be in place on the machine, and should be attached to the user’s clothing.
HEART RATE MONITORING:
The machine can monitor a user’s heart rate using a Polar® compatible chest strap, Bluetooth wireless technology enabled
HR monitoring device, or the metal grips on the hand rails (called contact heart rate or CHR pads). A chest strap transmits
the user’s heart rate to the machine via a radio signal, and the CHR pads connect to a special computer circuit to extract
the user’s heart rate.
Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitoring:
Although this machine functions fine without using the heart rate monitoring feature, this kind of monitoring gives
valuable feedback on the user’s effort level.
When users wear a Polar® compatible transmitter strap, the machine will display the user’s heart rate as a digital beats-per-
minute (bpm) readout. The transmitter strap should be worn directly against the user’s skin, about 1-2 inches below the
pectoral muscles/breast line. Women should be careful to place the transmitter below their bra line.
Initially the transmission signal for heart rate may be erratic or non-existent. Some moisture is necessary between the strap
and the user’s skin for proper transmission. Sweat from exercise works best, but ordinary tap water may be used prior to
the workout if desired.
A Note on Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitoring:
The chest strap produces a radio signal that the machine reads and registers as the user’s heart rate. The accuracy of a
reading may be affected when outside interference is present.
Contact Heart Rate (CHR):
The CHR system will let the user monitor their heart rate without wearing a chest strap. When using the CHR system
users should gently grasp the CHR pads with both hands. Within 30 seconds, the user’s heart rate should be displayed as a
digital bpm readout (during the first 30 seconds the system is analyzing and locking in the user’s heart rate). Users should
exercise with smooth body motions and breathe regularly. It is best to avoid talking while using the CHR system, as talking
will cause unrepresentative heart rate spikes of 5 to 10 bpm. To ensure an accurate reading, the user’s hands should be
clean, free of both dirt and hand lotions.
Note: For increased safety and accuracy, the CHR system should only be used at speeds of 4 mph or lower (CHR readings
are less accurate due to large muscle movements above this speed).
A Note on CHR Accuracy:
CHR monitoring may be less accurate than chest strap monitoring since the heart rate signals are much stronger at the
chest. When using a HRC workout, it is best to use a chest strap because of the stronger and more accurate readings.
caution:
Do not use the contact heart rate grips as a handlebar during a workout.
