Polar launch the OH1+ armband heart rate monitor, with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity

Polar have launched the OH1+ heart rate monitor, that fits to your lower arm as opposed to the wrist or around your midriff. It's also able to connect to Bluetooth and now ANT+ devices too, something Polar has resisted on previous products.     

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The OH1+ is the successor to the OH1, with the updates including the ANT+ connectivity and also a goggle clip that allows you to measure heart rate from your temple (should you fancy a dip during your next bikepacking epic). The connectivity updates mean the OH1+ will now talk to all major BLE and ANT+ ready turbo trainers and static bikes, and virtual training programmes such as Zwift and TrainerRoad.   

It's aimed at general fitness enthusiasts, swimmers and runners as well as cyclists; and the forearm mounting with a soft textile armband to attach the HRM may be appreciated by those who want greater accuracy than you'd get with most wrist-based devices, but prefer not to wear a chest strap. The OH1+ is machine-washable and waterproof up to 30m, and Polar have equipped it with their own 'proprietary optical hear rate solution' for accurate tracking. 

Using in conjunction with Polar's own Beat allows you to see real-time heart rate data and get access to smart coaching features, although you could of course connect it to your own app of choice. The internal memory stores up to 200 training hours, with a battery life of up to 12 hours - recharging is via USB. 

The OH1+ is available in black, grey and orange colours for £69.50. Polar say it's ready to buy from the 20th March but as we haven't seen UK buying links yet, we'll update as and when we see them appear online.