A heart rate monitoring unit including a heart rate monitor and a belt. The heart rate monitor includes a base having a length defining a longitudinal axis, an electronics unit portion, a first electrode portion, and a first belt connection portion. The electronics unit portion has a first end proximate the first electrode portion and a second end distal from the first electrode portion. The first electrode portion has a first end proximate the electronics unit portion and a second end distal from the electronics unit portion. The first belt connection portion is disposed between the second end of the electronics unit portion and the second end of first electrode portion. The base includes a first electrode secured to the first electrode portion, and an electronics unit secured to the electronics unit portion.