Amazfit has expanded its wearable ecosystem with the launch of the Helio Strap Pro, a multi-sensor fitness tracking system designed for high-intensity training. The $200 system includes an upper-arm heart rate sensor and a clip-on waist motion sensor, providing specialized data for activities like Hyrox competitions. Unlike many competitors, the device functions without a recurring monthly subscription fee.
Expanding Beyond the Wrist
The shift toward screenless wearables reflects a growing consumer desire to reduce screen time while maintaining high-fidelity health monitoring. While devices like the Whoop strap and Google’s Fitbit sensors rely primarily on wrist-based data, the Helio Strap Pro introduces a dual-sensor approach to capture more granular movement metrics.
According to Amazfit, the upper-arm sensor placement offers more reliable heart rate data than traditional wrist-based monitors. By moving the sensor closer to the heart and away from the impact of wrist movement or contact with gym equipment, the company claims it reduces common signal artifacts encountered during intense exercise.
Integration with the Hybrid Training System
The Helio Strap Pro is designed to function as part of Amazfit’s broader Hybrid Training System. While the sensors can operate independently, they are optimized for use with the company’s Balance 3 or Balance Ultra smartwatches.
- Waist Sensor: Specifically calibrated to track stability and movement during the eight stations of a Hyrox race, such as sled pushes, burpee broad jumps, and farmer’s carries.
- Arm Sensor: Features broader utility, compatible with over 50 sport modes within the Zepp app to monitor cardio effort and muscle load.
When paired with a Balance smartwatch, users can access comprehensive performance trends, recovery guidance, and nutrition data. While the system currently supports the Balance series, Amazfit has stated intentions to expand compatibility to other smartwatches in its lineup in future updates.
Hardware Specifications and Pricing
The Helio Strap Pro system includes the Helio Core Motion HR sensor, the Helio Core Motion waist sensor, a waist clip, an armband, and a wristband for optional daily wear.
Technical Battery Performance:
- Upper-Arm Sensor: Up to 11 days of battery life.
- Waist Sensor: Up to 40 days of battery life.
- Charging: Both units require approximately two hours for a full charge.
The system is compatible with iOS 17 and later, as well as Android 8.0 and later. From a cost-of-ownership perspective, the Helio Strap Pro is HSA- and FSA-eligible. While the standalone sensor kit costs $200, users who do not already own a compatible Balance smartwatch would face a total investment of $570 to $800 depending on the watch model selected. This pricing structure stands in contrast to competitors like Whoop, which mandates an annual membership fee ranging from $199 to $359 to access health data.
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