Garmin HRM 200 is proof that simplicity still wins in fitness tech

Garmin, fresh off the launch of the Instinct 3 Series, is back with another gadget to make sure your workouts are more informed than ever – the HRM 200 chest strap.

This unassuming heart rate monitor might not have an AMOLED display or built-in flashlight, but it promises to keep your heart (rate) in check with military precision.

The HRM 200 is all about simplicity done right and offers razor-sharp heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) data for runners, cyclists, and athletes of all kinds.

While it collects fewer metrics than the flagship Garmin HRM-Pro, the HRM 200 does connect seamlessly with Garmin smartwatches, Edge cycling computers, and even the Tacx Training app.

Available in two sizes (XS-S and M-XL), the HRM 200 ditches the one-size-fits-none approach for something that actually fits.

The strap is machine washable (yes!) because nobody wants to work out with last week’s sweat still hanging around.

With a battery life that stretches up to a year using a coin-cell battery (unlike the rechargeable Wahoo Trackr Heart Rate), the HRM 200 will probably outlast your New Year’s resolution to hit the gym more often.

It even has a status LED light to let you know it’s alive and kicking—or in need of a quick battery swap.

At £79.99/ $79.99/ AU$149 (Garmin UK, Garmin US and Garmin AU), the HRM 200 is a no-brainer for those who want data accuracy without the bulk of a smartwatch.