Myzone in the Pool: Which Devices Are Water-Resistant and How to Track Your Swims

Can I Wear Myzone in the Pool?

Yes, you can wear certain Myzone devices in the pool, but with important considerations regarding specific model compatibility, data transmission limitations, and proper usage to ensure accurate tracking and device longevity.

Understanding Myzone Technology and Water Resistance

Myzone devices are designed to accurately measure heart rate (HR) and convert physiological effort into Myzone Effort Points (MEPs), providing a comprehensive overview of your workout intensity. For any electronic device, water exposure is a critical factor. Water resistance is typically rated using atmospheres (ATM) or meters, indicating the depth and pressure a device can withstand without damage. While many fitness trackers are "water-resistant," this does not always mean they are suitable for sustained submersion or swimming.

Myzone Models and Water Resistance Ratings

Myzone offers different models, each with specific water resistance capabilities:

• Myzone MZ-3 Chest Strap: This device is rated 1 ATM (10 meters). While it can withstand splashes, rain, and brief immersion, it is generally not recommended for swimming or sustained submersion. The primary reason is not just the water depth, but also the nature of the electrical signals it uses. The MZ-3 relies on Bluetooth and ANT+ for real-time data transmission, which are significantly hampered or blocked by water. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to chlorinated or saltwater can degrade the strap and sensor.
• Myzone MZ-Switch: This is Myzone's most versatile device and is designed with water activities in mind. The MZ-Switch is rated 3 ATM (30 meters), making it suitable for swimming, showering, and other water-based activities. Its design allows for three different wearing options: chest, arm, or wrist, offering flexibility for various exercises, including swimming.

How Myzone Tracks Data in Water

The primary challenge for any HR monitor in water is the transmission of data. Bluetooth and ANT+ signals, which Myzone devices use to send real-time data to your phone or a Myzone receiver, are severely attenuated by water. This means:

• No Real-Time Display: You will generally not see your heart rate or MEPs updated in real-time on the Myzone app while you are actively swimming or submerged. The signal cannot reliably travel from the device through the water to your phone on the pool deck.
• Internal Memory for Data Storage: This is where the MZ-Switch excels for aquatic use. When out of range or submerged, the MZ-Switch automatically stores your workout data internally.
• Post-Workout Sync: Once you exit the water and are back within range of your Myzone app (or a Myzone receiver), the device will automatically upload the stored workout data to your Myzone account. This allows you to review your heart rate, MEPs, and calorie burn for your entire swimming session after the fact.

Best Practices for Using Myzone in the Pool

To ensure accuracy, longevity, and a positive experience when using a compatible Myzone device (specifically the MZ-Switch) for swimming:

• Choose the Right Device: Always use the Myzone MZ-Switch for swimming. The MZ-3 is not designed for this purpose.
• Optimal Placement for MZ-Switch:
  • Chest: For the most accurate heart rate readings, the chest position (using the included chest strap for the MZ-Switch) is often preferred, as it's closest to the heart. Ensure a snug fit to prevent movement in the water.
  • Arm/Wrist: While convenient, optical heart rate sensors (like those used on the arm/wrist for the MZ-Switch) can sometimes be less accurate in water due due to movement, water interference, and changes in skin blood flow. Experiment to find what works best for you, ensuring the sensor has good contact with your skin.
• Ensure Sufficient Battery: Make sure your MZ-Switch is adequately charged before your swim, as it will be storing data internally.
• Rinse and Dry Thoroughly: After every swim, especially in chlorinated or saltwater, rinse your Myzone device and strap with fresh water to remove chemicals and salt. Allow it to air dry completely before storing to prevent corrosion and prolong the life of the materials.
• Sync Promptly: Once out of the water, open your Myzone app to allow the device to sync its stored data.

Benefits and Limitations of Using Myzone for Aquatic Workouts

Integrating Myzone into your aquatic fitness routine offers distinct advantages and some inherent limitations:

Benefits:

• Objective Effort Measurement: Myzone provides an objective measure of your effort (MEPs) during swimming, allowing you to train within specific heart rate zones for targeted fitness goals (e.g., endurance, fat burning, high-intensity interval training).
• Motivation and Accountability: Seeing your MEPs accumulate, even after the workout, can be highly motivating and help you track your progress over time.
• Comprehensive Training Picture: Myzone helps integrate your swimming workouts into your overall fitness profile, alongside other activities, providing a holistic view of your physical activity.
• Enhanced Self-Awareness: Understanding your body's response to different swimming intensities can help you optimize your training and recovery.

Limitations:

• No Real-Time Feedback: The inability to see real-time heart rate or MEPs on your app during a swim can be a drawback for those who prefer immediate feedback to adjust their intensity.
• Potential for Signal Drop (Optical HR): While the MZ-Switch is designed for water, optical heart rate sensors (arm/wrist) can sometimes experience signal drops or inaccuracies during vigorous swimming due to water movement and device shifting.
• Device Care: Proper rinsing and drying are crucial to prevent damage from water chemicals, adding a small step to your post-workout routine.

Maximizing Your Aquatic Training with Myzone

To get the most out of your Myzone MZ-Switch in the pool:

• Train by MEP Goals: Set daily or weekly MEP targets that incorporate your swimming sessions.
• Analyze Post-Workout Data: Review your heart rate graph after your swim to identify periods of high and low intensity. This can help you understand how different strokes or drills impact your effort.
• Integrate with Other Metrics: Combine your Myzone data with traditional swimming metrics like lap count, stroke rate, and perceived exertion to create a comprehensive picture of your aquatic performance.
• Vary Your Intensity: Use your Myzone data to ensure you're incorporating a mix of steady-state and interval training in your swimming, hitting different heart rate zones to develop various aspects of your fitness.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

For fitness enthusiasts and professionals looking to track their effort in the water, the Myzone MZ-Switch is the appropriate and recommended device. While the MZ-3 chest strap is not suitable for swimming due to its water resistance rating and signal limitations, the MZ-Switch's 3 ATM rating and internal memory capabilities make it a valuable tool for monitoring your heart rate and earning MEPs during aquatic workouts. Always adhere to Myzone's official guidelines and practice proper device care to ensure a long and effective partnership with your technology in the pool.