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Garmin HRM-FIT - User Manual

Garmin HRM-FIT
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HRM-FIT
Owner’s Manual
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Summary

Heart Rate Monitor Instructions

Putting On the Heart Rate Monitor

Instructions for correctly wearing the HRM-Fit heart rate monitor for optimal performance.

HRM-Fit Sports Bra Guide

Guidance on selecting and using sports bras for proper fit and comfort.

Pairing and Setup Guide

Steps to pair the heart rate monitor with devices via ANT+ or Bluetooth technology.

Understanding Running Dynamics Metrics

Explains running metrics like cadence, stride length, and vertical oscillation.

Calculating Running Pace and Distance

How the monitor calculates running pace and distance based on motion.

Daily Activity Tracking

Details on how the monitor tracks daily activity metrics like steps and calories.

Storing Heart Rate Data During Activities

How the monitor stores heart rate data during activities when not paired.

Accessing Stored Heart Rate Data

Instructions to download stored heart rate data from the monitor after an activity.

Connecting to Fitness Equipment

How to connect the heart rate monitor to compatible fitness equipment.

Device Information and Maintenance

Proper Wearing Techniques and Precautions

Advice on wearing the HRM-Fit to prevent irritation and ensure accurate readings.

Troubleshooting Erratic Heart Rate Data

Solutions for inconsistent or missing heart rate data.

Troubleshooting Missing Running Dynamics Data

Troubleshooting steps for when running dynamics data is not displayed.

Replacing the Heart Rate Monitor Battery

Step-by-step guide for changing the battery in the HRM-Fit.

Caring for the Heart Rate Monitor

Maintenance instructions to keep the heart rate monitor clean and functional.

Storage and Protection Guidelines

Recommendations for storing and protecting the heart rate monitor.

Technical Specifications

Key technical details and features of the HRM-Fit heart rate monitor.

Getting Support and Resources

Information on how to obtain help and resources for the HRM-Fit.

Limited Warranty Details

Details about the product's warranty coverage and terms.

Summary

Heart Rate Monitor Instructions

Putting On the Heart Rate Monitor

Instructions for correctly wearing the HRM-Fit heart rate monitor for optimal performance.

HRM-Fit Sports Bra Guide

Guidance on selecting and using sports bras for proper fit and comfort.

Pairing and Setup Guide

Steps to pair the heart rate monitor with devices via ANT+ or Bluetooth technology.

Understanding Running Dynamics Metrics

Explains running metrics like cadence, stride length, and vertical oscillation.

Calculating Running Pace and Distance

How the monitor calculates running pace and distance based on motion.

Daily Activity Tracking

Details on how the monitor tracks daily activity metrics like steps and calories.

Storing Heart Rate Data During Activities

How the monitor stores heart rate data during activities when not paired.

Accessing Stored Heart Rate Data

Instructions to download stored heart rate data from the monitor after an activity.

Connecting to Fitness Equipment

How to connect the heart rate monitor to compatible fitness equipment.

Device Information and Maintenance

Proper Wearing Techniques and Precautions

Advice on wearing the HRM-Fit to prevent irritation and ensure accurate readings.

Troubleshooting Erratic Heart Rate Data

Solutions for inconsistent or missing heart rate data.

Troubleshooting Missing Running Dynamics Data

Troubleshooting steps for when running dynamics data is not displayed.

Replacing the Heart Rate Monitor Battery

Step-by-step guide for changing the battery in the HRM-Fit.

Caring for the Heart Rate Monitor

Maintenance instructions to keep the heart rate monitor clean and functional.

Storage and Protection Guidelines

Recommendations for storing and protecting the heart rate monitor.

Technical Specifications

Key technical details and features of the HRM-Fit heart rate monitor.

Getting Support and Resources

Information on how to obtain help and resources for the HRM-Fit.

Limited Warranty Details

Details about the product's warranty coverage and terms.

Overview

The Garmin HRM-FIT is a heart rate monitor designed to provide real-time feedback on heart rate and running dynamics, as well as track daily activity metrics. It is specifically designed to be worn with a sports bra, offering a secure and comfortable fit for various fitness activities.

Function Description

The primary function of the HRM-FIT is to accurately measure and transmit heart rate data. It uses electrodes on the back of the monitor to detect electrical signals from the heart. Beyond basic heart rate monitoring, the device incorporates an accelerometer to measure torso movement, enabling it to calculate six key running dynamics metrics: cadence, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, ground contact time balance, stride length, and vertical ratio. These metrics offer insights into running form, helping users improve efficiency and reduce injury risk.

The HRM-FIT also calculates running pace and distance, even when GPS is unavailable, such as during treadmill running. This is achieved by analyzing the user's profile and the motion measured by the sensor on every stride.

For daily activity tracking, the HRM-FIT monitors step count, calories burned, intensity minutes, and all-day heart rate. This data is sent to the Garmin Connect app, providing a comprehensive overview of the user's activity levels.

A notable feature is its ability to store heart rate data for timed activities. If a user starts an activity on a compatible Garmin device but moves away from it, the HRM-FIT continues to record heart rate data. This is particularly useful for fitness activities or team sports where wearing a watch might not be practical. The stored data can then be downloaded to the Garmin device once the activity is saved and the monitor is back in range. The device can store up to 18 hours of activity history, with older data being overwritten once the memory is full.

Usage Features

To use the HRM-FIT, it must first be properly put on and paired with a compatible device or app.

Putting On the Heart Rate Monitor:

  1. Wear a medium or high support sports bra with a tight-fitting band. The proper fit is crucial to minimize movement, maintain skin-to-electrode contact, and ensure comfort.
  2. Wet the electrodes on the back of the heart rate monitor to establish a strong connection with the chest.
  3. Open the clips on the front of the heart rate monitor.
  4. Insert the sports bra band fabric into the center clip, ensuring it lays flat.
  5. Close the center clip until it clicks into place.
  6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the side clips, gently pulling the sports bra band towards the center while closing the clips.
  7. Verify that the HRM-FIT is securely in place, flat beneath the sports bra band, and compressed against the skin. Once worn, the monitor becomes active and starts sending data.

HRM-Fit Sports Bra Guide:

The HRM-FIT performs optimally with sports bras featuring a flat band around the rib cage. Good band compression is essential to minimize movement and ensure consistent contact between the skin and electrodes for accurate heart rate detection. The sports bra should offer medium or high support, suitable for running, cardio, or high-intensity workouts. Two fingers should fit snugly under the band, and it should not be easily pulled away. The band width under the bust should be approximately 19 to 50 mm (0.75 to 2 in.). A band that is too long might position the monitor too low, while a narrow band might lack sufficient material for proper clipping. The sports bra should also be free of zippers or other embellishments in the front that could interfere with the clips.

Pairing and Setup:

The HRM-FIT can be paired with various devices using ANT+ or Bluetooth technology.

  • ANT+ Device Pairing: For most Garmin ANT+ compatible devices, bring the device within 3 meters of the HRM-FIT and use the device menu to pair manually. For some devices, bring it within 1 cm for automatic pairing. It's recommended to stay 10 meters away from other ANT+ sensors during pairing. Once paired, the Garmin device will automatically recognize the HRM-FIT when activated and in range.
  • Bluetooth Device Pairing: To pair with a phone, tablet, smartwatch, or fitness equipment, wear the HRM-FIT, bring the device within 3 meters, open the Bluetooth settings on the device, and select "HRM-Fit" from the list of available devices. Again, staying 10 meters away from other wireless sensors is advised.
  • Garmin Connect App Pairing: To utilize activity tracking and receive software updates, pair the HRM-FIT with the Garmin Connect app. Install and open the app, wear the HRM-FIT, bring the phone within 3 meters, and follow the on-screen instructions to add the device to your account.

Accessing Stored Heart Rate Data:

After a timed activity, if stored heart rate data wasn't downloaded immediately, it can be retrieved later. Wear the HRM-FIT, go to the History menu on your compatible Garmin watch, select the timed activity, and choose "Download Heart Rate." The watch will generate a new activity file with the heart rate data, which may need manual import into Garmin Connect.

Linking to Fitness Equipment:

The HRM-FIT can connect to compatible fitness equipment via ANT+ or Bluetooth, allowing users to view their heart rate on the equipment console. Look for the "ANT+LINK HERE" or Bluetooth logo on the equipment.

Tips for Erratic Heart Rate Data:

If heart rate data is inconsistent or absent, users can try reapplying water to the electrodes, warming up for 5-10 minutes, checking the sports bra fit, following care instructions, wearing a cotton shirt or thoroughly wetting the strap, and moving away from sources of interference (e.g., strong electromagnetic fields, 2.4 GHz wireless sensors, high-voltage power lines, electric motors, ovens, microwave ovens, cordless phones, and wireless LAN access points). Synthetic fabrics rubbing against the monitor can create static electricity that interferes with signals.

Tips for Missing Running Dynamics Data:

Ensure the Garmin device supports running dynamics and that the HRM-FIT is paired using ANT+ technology (not Bluetooth). If data shows only zeros, confirm the accessory is worn right-side up. Ground contact time and balance are only calculated during running, not walking.

Maintenance Features

Replacing the Heart Rate Monitor Battery:

  1. Open the center clip of the HRM-FIT.
  2. Locate the circular battery cover.
  3. Using a coin or large flathead screwdriver (8 mm or 5/16 in.), turn the cover counterclockwise 90 degrees.
  4. Remove the cover and the battery.
  5. Gently lift the battery out at the pry point. A magnet or tape can also assist in removal.
  6. Wait 30 seconds.
  7. Insert the positive side of a new CR2032, 3V battery into the battery cover.
  8. Replace the battery cover.
  9. Turn the alignment tab clockwise 90 degrees, ensuring the battery cover is flush with the heart rate monitor module.
  10. Check the battery cover alignment to confirm it is fully closed and locked.

Caring for the Heart Rate Monitor:

Proper care is crucial to prevent damage and maintain data accuracy.

  • Rinsing: Rinse the heart rate monitor after every use.
  • Washing: Hand wash the heart rate monitor after every seven uses. Use warm water (maximum 40°C/104°F) and a tiny amount of mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid.
  • Rinsing after washing: Thoroughly rinse the strap after hand washing to remove any detergent residue, which can cause skin irritation.
  • Drying: Do not put the heart rate monitor in a washing machine or dryer. When drying, lay it flat with the clips in an open position to air dry.
  • Storage: When storing, lay the heart rate monitor flat. Avoid bending or tightly rolling it. Do not store it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
  • Chemical Exposure: Minimize exposure to sunscreens, bleach, mosquito repellent, and chemicals found in certain deodorants, body washes, hand soaps, and first aid ointments, as specific ingredients (propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)) can damage the strap.
  • Clipping: Do not clip the heart rate monitor to clothes hangers, clotheslines, or other items; the clips are designed exclusively for sports bras.

Garmin HRM-FIT Specifications

General IconGeneral
StopwatchNo
Product colorBlack
Measuring typeBreast
Bluetooth range10 m
Bluetooth version3.0
Heart rate data transferBluetooth/ANT+
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)Yes
Sustainability certificatesCE, UKCA
Battery life1 year(s)
Battery typeCR2032
Number of batteries supported1
Weight and Dimensions IconWeight and Dimensions
Depth17 mm
Width335 mm
Height33 mm
Weight53 g