Runners, do you weigh up the pros and cons of wrist heart rate monitors versus chest ones? Well, now there’s another option - Polar, experts in wearable sports and fitness technology and the original pioneer in heart rate monitoring, have just launched an optical sensor for the arm, the Polar OH1.
The first of its kind, the Polar OH1 is a versatile optical heart rate sensor for the upper or lower arm, featuring an internal memory capable of storing up to 200 hours of HR training and a battery life of up to 12 hours. It will provide an alternative to those who may prefer a change-up to the traditional chest strap or wrist based heart rate monitor.
The Polar OH1 is equipped with Polar’s highly-advanced, proprietary optical heart rate solution to provide accurate heart rate monitoring. For the first time, the Polar OH1 provides a versatile alternative for users who may prefer not to wear a chest strap or wrist-based heart rate tracker.
The Polar OH1 armband is made of a comfortable, soft-textile material that includes a secure buckle, to ensure it keeps firmly in place on either the forearm or upper arm during any sports activity, and is waterproof up to 30m. Unlike other chest strap heart-rate trackers, there is no need to moisten the strap or lift the shirt. In addition, the internal memory of the OH1 can store up to 200 hours of heart rate training, with the battery life boasting up to 12 hours of operating time.

Polar OH1 works with all Bluetooth compatible Polar and Bluetooth devices to enable users to follow their heart rate in real-time. When paired with Polar Beat, Polar’s free fitness and training app, users can access real-time heart rate data and training guidance. Following training sessions, users can transfer their data to Polar Flow which will work alongside Polar Beat to produce a more comprehensive daily overview. Polar’s Smart Coaching features can also offer additional guidance and feedback on specific activities.
“Polar OH1 delivers a compelling alternative to wrist and chest-based heart rate measurement,” said Tom Fowler, President of Polar U.S.A. “We know that comfort and accuracy are key drivers of high performance, both of which were paramount when we engineered the details of the OH1.”
“In the gym and on the road, no matter which sport you choose, the OH1 can be trusted to deliver accurate, stable data in a remarkably comfortable form factor,” adds Jani Juntunen, Product Manager.
The Polar OH1 is priced at £69.50 and will begin shipping in mid-September. Learn more about Polar, heart rate monitoring, and Polar Flow at
www.polar.com.