While demand for electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring systems is increasing, a major hurdle has been the necessity of gel electrodes for reliable long-term measurements. The electrodes dry out within 24 hours, after which they no longer produce useable signals. They are also not very suitable for older patients who frequently sweat less and are less mobile than younger subjects. A team of Swiss researchers, however, recently unveiled a new chest strap heart rate monitor featuring wettable electrodes.