Whether you’re in the studio, working out at home, or on the run (literally), heart rate training is a great way to better your workouts and improve your fitness level.

Cat talked to Studio SWEAT client Kate about what happened when she began using a heart rate belt, and here are the top 6 reasons she said it’s been an awesome tool to add to her gym bag.

1. Motivates me to work harder & smarter during my workout.

2. Allows me to set & reach goals for the workout, week or even month. Like, “Today I want to burn at least 600 calories!”.

3. I’ve lost more weight using it! Probably because my workouts got more consistent and I began setting goals.

4. It pushes me to keep up with the instructor. I want to work at her level. Plus, Cat will call me out if I don’t. On the flip-side, she will also tell me if I need to settle down, like if we should be in a recovery period and she sees my heart rate is too high.

5. After using a heart rate belt for a while I know now what it feels like to be in yellow/orange/red zone even without the monitor. That’s pretty awesome.

6. It creates a fun element to the class! Sometimes there is nothing wrong with a little healthy competition, especially if it’s just with myself!

Below is a link to the heart rate belt (the My Zone) Cat wears and likes the best, but she also likes the Wahoo Tickr a lot. My Zone Heart Rate Belt: http://bitcotprod.studiosweatondemand.com/shop-studio-sweat/myzone-heart-rate-monitor/