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There are two main problems with [[Heart Rate Monitor| Heart Rate Monitoring]]; poor accuracy and chaffing, and there are two simple fixes. The first fix is to apply a little[http://www.amazon.com/Buh-Bump-2-5-Ounce-Heart-Monitor-Electrode/dp/B000HZD2NU Buh-Bump Electrode Cream], which improves the accuracy and provides some lubrication that reduces chaffing. The other fix is to apply some duct tape to the bottom edge of the strap, which works wonders at preventing chaffing. I had no chaffing problems with a duct taped strap during the 37 hours I was running [[2014_Badwater_135| Badwater]]. There are other issues, including the strap wearing out, which are covered below.
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|[[File:BuhBump.JPG|right|thumb|x300px|Buh-Bump and Duct Tape can fix your Heart Rate Monitoring woes.]]
=Garmin's HRM4=
Garmin has introduced an updated form factor for their heart rate monitors which makes them much less likely to chafe. I upgraded to the [https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-HRM-Run-Black-Red-Size/dp/B01708T7NA "HRM4"], and it's greatly reduced my issues.
[[File:GarminHRM4.jpg|nonecenter|thumb|300px|The HRM4 at the top, the older style Garmin HRM, and the Polar H7.]]
=Testing a Heart Rate Monitor Strap=
Based on some empirical testing, I've found that the resistance between the popper contacts and the electrode pads is typically about 1.0-1.2 KΩ. A higher resistance suggests that the strap is worn out or damage and faulty readings are more likely.