Around your finger

( LifeSpan / February 6, 2008 )

LifeSpan MyBeat Heart Rate Ring: Tiny ring, worn on index finger, that measures heart rate.

Likes: Small and inconspicuous. Simple two-button operation -- the left one controls a timer, and the right switches from time-of-day to heart rate when pushed. Cool novelty factor; cheap enough to give as gifts (to non-exercisers). Spare battery included.

Dislikes: Too slow and inaccurate to use for anything but ballpark estimates. Takes 20 seconds or more to get a reading. Compared with a conventional heart rate monitor, the ring over- or under-counted heart-rate readings by as much as 15 beats at high workout levels, and the numbers fluctuated a great deal.

Price: $29.99. (877) 654-3837; www.lifespanfitness.com.