heart rate: frequency of checking

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Level 1

9 points

heart rate: frequency of checking

I need to monitor my heart rate, and get an alarm if the rate goes >120. I have a FitBit Versa and have a great app on that which monitors every 20 seconds or so, and shows the rate on the screen.

But on my other wrist is my Apple Watch Series 6. In a workout, the Heart Rate is dimmed. Bringing up the Heart Rate App, I get a reading, and it may take 5 minutes before it updates. I know my HR has been above 120 at times, but never get the notification I have set on the Watch.

I've tried other apps, e.g., Heartwatch and Heart Analyzer, and the same applies, even when I select Live HR.

I keep my watch tight enough with a nylon sport band, I'm a bit dark in complexion but not very dark.

Is there any way to get this frequency up, or do I just need to always have a Versa?

Apple Watch Series 6

Posted on May 30, 2023 1:52 PM

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Answer 1

javaliga

Level 10

120,179 points

May 30, 2023 2:00 PM in response to ckuttner

When you use the Workout app, Apple Watch should measure your heart rate continuously during the workout and for 3 minutes after the workout ends to determine a workout recovery rate. If you don't see your heart rate, check your settings.

This information, as well as other data it collects, helps Apple Watch estimate how many calories you’ve burned. In addition, Apple Watch measures your heart rate throughout the day when you’re still, and periodically when you’re walking (Apple Watch Series 1 or later). Since Apple Watch takes these background readings based on your activity, the time between these measurements will vary. Apple Watch also calculates a daily resting rate and walking average by correlating background heart rate readings with accelerometer data when sufficient background readings are available. You can control which third-party apps have access to your health data from the Health app in Sources.

For more info, see:

Monitor your heart rate with Apple Watch - Apple Support

If a third-party app is not blocking those measurements, then your best option may be to make an appointment at the Genius Bar in an Apple Store near you and let them look at it:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

to make sure the heart rate sensors are working properly.

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Answer 2

ckuttner Author

Level 1

9 points

May 31, 2023 9:31 AM in response to ckuttner

My progress report: deleted Heartwatch and Heart Analyzer. On my morning walk, Workout gave HR readings that were much higher than either Versa or my own physical check indicated, about 4 minutes between each reading. After a few of those, the HR went dark. Same happened after a pause and return.

So maybe it's time for a visit to the Genius Bar. Or maybe Apple Watches just aren't capable of reliably reading pulse.

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Answer 3

ckuttner Author

Level 1

9 points

May 30, 2023 2:53 PM in response to javaliga

Thank you...I'd already gone through all these steps, but I looked again. I am still perplexed about the heart rate not being visible during Workout, and so maybe it's time for me to make an appointment at the Genius Bar.

I'm wondering if one of my other heart apps may be messing with heart rate measurement. If fact, I'll go ahead and delete both of those right now.

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heart rate: frequency of checking

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