Pairing a Heart Rate Monitor to Your Machine
Your bike's console contains both the Garmin™ G-Fit chip module and Bluetooth® FTMS chip module (monitor sold separately). Both chips can connect your heart rate strap to the bike's console. Connecting your heart rate strap should ideally be done during the warm-up phase which occurs at the very beginning after the console turns on. If the rider is wearing a heart rate strap, the console will prompt to pair the heart rate strap for 30-seconds after starting-up and until pressing the 'Play' key.
To pair your heart rate device:
- Prior to beginning a program, press and hold the 'Play' key for three (3) seconds or until the console displays: "PAIR HR DEVICE."
Press the 'Play' key again to scan for available heart rate devices. The console may display "SCAN HR DEVICES" up to twelve (12) times.
If heart rate monitor(s) are detected, the number of sensors displays (for example: "2 SENSORS FOUND"). Along with each device displayed is number indicating the distance each device is from the console. The number is in decibel meters and may display as 65DBM. Usually the smaller number is your chest strap but not always. If another rider is wearing a chest strap in near of you, their device may be closer to your console than you are. Ideally, you should be familiar with your MyZone SN# located on the back of the MyZone module or your devices ANT+ number. This will simplify selecting the appropriate HR strap.- To scroll through the found devices, press the '+' key. When your device is located, press the 'Play' key to connect.
- "ENTER AGE" will now display on the console (35 is the default). Press the +/- keys to adjust and press the 'Play' key to confirm.
- The console will now calculate your target heart rate. Press the 'Play' key to confirm.
- "WARM UP" will flash three (3) times. "PRESS PLAY KEY WHEN READY TO GO" will then display on the console. Your heart rate monitor is successfully paired and you may now begin your workout!
Wearing a Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor
Your workout must be within range (close distance between transmitter and receiver) to achieve a strong, steady signal. The length of range may vary somewhat but generally, the user should stay within 3' of the console to maintain good, strong, reliable readings. It is also recommended that you wear the transmitter strap a few minutes before your workout. Some users, because of body chemistry, have a more difficult time in achieving a strong, steady signal at the beginning. After warming up, this problem lessens.
To put on your chest strap:
- Attach the transmitter to the elastic strap using the locking parts.
- Adjust the strap as tightly as possible, as long as the strap is not too tight to remain comfortable.
- Position the transmitter with the logo centered in the middle of your torso facing away from your chest (some people must position the transmitter slightly left of center). Attach the final end of the elastic strap by inserting the round end and, using the locking parts, secure the transmitter and strap around your chest.
- Ensure that the transmitter is placed directly below the pectoral muscles.
5. Sweat is the best conductor to measure very minute heart beat electrical signals. However, plain water can also be used to pre-wet the electrodes (2 ribbed oval areas on the reverse side of the belt and both sides of the transmitter).
Wearing the transmitter directly on bare skin assures you of proper operation, however, wearing clothing over the transmitter/strap does not affect performance. To do so, wet the areas of the shirt that the electrodes will rest upon.
Benefits of Wearing a Heart Rate Monitor During Your Workouts
Using a heart rate monitor during workouts lets you track key information besides just how fast your heart is beating. A good heart rate monitor can also help you monitor the intensity of your workouts. The higher your heart rate gets, the more calories you’re burning. By using a heart rate monitor during a workout, you can adjust your energy output to match your heart rate to the best level to burn fat. Monitoring your workout intensity will allow you to get the optimal caloric expenditure and burning of fats and carbohydrates. Read our article, "Utilizing the Heart Rate Features" to learn more about tracking your heart rate during workouts.
Troubleshooting Your Chest Strap Heart Monitor
Do not use this bike for Heart Rate Programs unless a steady, solid heart rate value is being displayed. High, wild, random numbers being displayed indicates a problem. Interference that may cause erratic heart rate include(s):
- Microwave ovens, TV’s, small appliances, etc.
- Fluorescent lights
- Some household security systems
- Perimeter fence for a pet
- Another Individual wearing a transmitter within 3’ of your machine’s console
Some users have problems with the transmitter picking up a signal from their skin. If you have problems, try wearing the transmitter upside down.
The antenna that picks up your heart rate is very sensitive. If there is an outside noise source, turning the whole machine 90 degrees may de-tune the interference.
If you continue to experience problems using your chest strap heart rate monitor, submit a ticket to the Spirit Service Department here.