Garmin HRM 600 Review 2026: The Best Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor for Triathletes?

The Garmin HRM 600 is the company’s most advanced chest strap heart rate monitor — and the one that finally makes optical wrist-based HR feel like a compromise. At around £169.99, it delivers running dynamics, HRV status, standalone recording, and three simultaneous Bluetooth connections alongside ANT+. For triathletes who demand data accuracy over convenience, it is the clear choice in 2026.

What to Look For in a Chest Strap HR Monitor

Optical heart rate monitors on watches struggle during intense efforts and cold conditions. A chest strap with a quality electrode reads ECG-grade signals directly — far more accurate at VO2max and anaerobic efforts. The best straps also add running dynamics (cadence, ground contact time, vertical oscillation) that wrist sensors cannot measure.

Key Features

• ANT+ Unlimited + Bluetooth ×3: connect to three devices simultaneously — bike computer, GPS watch, power meter head unit
• Running dynamics: cadence, vertical oscillation, ground contact time and balance, stride length — all broadcast to compatible Garmin watches and head units
• HRV status: measures heart rate variability during sleep-like conditions for recovery tracking
• Standalone recording: stores up to 200 hours of data without a connected device — useful for pool swims where a watch can’t receive ANT+
• Battery life: up to 2 months on a single coin cell (CR2032)
• Weight: 18g module — barely noticeable in the aero position
• Module dimensions: 68 × 31.6 × 10mm

Performance in Training

During interval sessions, the HRM 600 tracks HR spikes with 1-2 beat lag versus ECG reference — negligible for training purposes. Optical watches can lag 10-15 beats during hard accelerations. Ground contact time balance is invaluable for identifying run gait asymmetry — a common cause of injury in triathlon training blocks.

The standalone recording mode is a game-changer for pool swim sessions. Most GPS watches cannot receive ANT+ underwater; the HRM 600 stores the full HR trace and syncs to Garmin Connect automatically when the strap comes within range of a paired device post-swim.

Our Verdict

The Garmin HRM 600 is the best chest strap heart rate monitor available for triathletes in 2026. Running dynamics, triple BT connections, standalone recording, and a 2-month battery at £170 represent outstanding value. If you use a Garmin watch or head unit, this is a must-buy upgrade.

Buying Tips

• Compatible with all Garmin watches and Edge head units that support ANT+ HR
• Running dynamics require a compatible Garmin watch (Forerunner 945 / 955 / 965 / 970 or Fenix series)
• The soft strap is machine-washable — wash after every swim to prevent salt/chlorine degradation

Care and Maintenance

Rinse the strap in fresh water after every pool or open-water swim. Remove the module before machine washing. Replace the CR2032 battery when Garmin Connect shows low battery warning — usually every 60-90 days with daily use.

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