One annoying HRM problem
 

So I have been enjoying using my HRM. But one problem I have is that in wearing the HRM strap on every ride, especially as much as I sweat, is that I am getting a bit of acne where the strap is. Mostly in the front where the strap is more 'rubbery'. Not really so much on the elastic part.

Do I live with it, or are there any tricks for minimizing this problem?

-D

Use it as a tool to learn more about yourself, then wear it less. I don't think it makes sense to use on recovery, endurance, or very intense/high power interval days. It's best use, other than self-learning, is probably training at or near LT. And some could probably successfully argue that you should be able to play that by feel as well. YMMV, good luck.

You are washing it after every ride, right?

Yea I generally wear it into the shower and lather it up as well.

-D

I figured it was worth a shot to ask;) I stopped wearing mine this week.

You might be allergic to latex or some material in the strap. Try insulating yourself from it with some moleskin.

Wouldn't that mess up the electrode's ability to pick up my heartbeat?

[edit] I don't think it is an allergy thing though. I have naturally "oily" skin. I used to have the same problem when I played alot of raquetball. The area where my safety goggles touched my skin would tend to break out as well (bridge of my nose, temples). May just be something I have to live with.

-D

I think it might be follicalitis, and not acne. Its an infection of hair follicles.. are all the acne bums in hair follicles? Check?

Could be a fungus, try some anti fungal on the strap and see if it reduces.

I have to disaggree here. I personally tend to push too hard on my training rides. I need the HRM to force me to slow down sometimes. I am supposed to be doing a LSD or a recover ride and I will be at 85% of max or higher. The HRM moderates my workouts. I also enjoy the feedback and data.

The OP can try using ultrasound gel under the strap.