The following lists advantages and disadvantages, when working with a HRM heart rate monitor in your daily training program.

Pros:

• Motivation enhancing factor (like having a training supervisor attached can be motivating).
• With the correct preceding guidance, you can train specifically within the optimal pulse zones on any given training day and training type.
• Helps the inexperienced not to over train.
• With the correct preceding guidance, the heart rate monitor can show the tempo rider the optimal work pulse. Both when training and in competition.

Cons:

• Too much data can ruin your focus and distract you from the important points, which are necessary to achieve top form based on your current level.
• You may become a rider/person who solely concentrates on the data. To have the ability to know which pulse rate you have in a situation without the use of a heart rate monitor is best, but is only granted the very experienced riders.
• Gradually as your level improves over a season your pulse zones will change. Therefore it demands that you adapt your pulse zones to your current level.
• Not suitable for training in groups.
• Distracting factor on the highways, which can result in accidents.
• Not suitable for use during competitions, which are not time trials or triathlon/duathlon