Bog

Q: HR sensor unreliable during workout

I'm interested in hearing the experiences of others that are using the Apple Watch as a heart rate monitor during a workout.

 

My experiences so far is that the Apple Watch is not a reliable HR monitor when my arms are moving.  For example, I use the watch to track HR during a walk/run and when doing circuit exercises with jumping jacks, squats, pushups, lunges, planks and sit-ups.  The walk run shows a relatively smooth HR line, however, the circuit training is very erratic (going below my typical resting HR during the workout).

 

The watch is very snug so I didn't think this would be an issue.  Perhaps it's just too susceptible to arm movements for reliable measurements. Is this something others experience?

Posted on Nov 6, 2015 6:40 AM

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Q: HR sensor unreliable during workout

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  • by jbrashrs,

    jbrashrs jbrashrs Nov 10, 2015 2:37 PM in response to Bog
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Nov 10, 2015 2:37 PM in response to Bog

    I have found the HR monitor to be very accurate. I have done multiple exercise types and compared to chest HR strap and Apple Watch has never been more that 1 average hearbeat different.  I have found that with some exercise types (especially involving strength) that HR can drop to lower levels for short time periods that may be affected by improper breathing (holding breath).  Also, strength exercises heavily involving the hands/wrist such as pullups, dumbell curls, can impact blood flow to the wrist and the watch can provide inaccurate results, but this will be the case with all wrist type devices.

  • by G3gator,

    G3gator G3gator Nov 10, 2015 5:28 PM in response to jbrashrs
    Level 3 (571 points)
    Nov 10, 2015 5:28 PM in response to jbrashrs

    I get some erratic (low) readings) while doing various arm machines at the gym but very consistent readings on the elliptical or biking. I suspect the difference is the reason you mention.

     

    George

  • by Bog,Apple recommended

    Bog Bog Nov 12, 2015 7:06 AM in response to G3gator
    Level 1 (6 points)
    Nov 12, 2015 7:06 AM in response to G3gator

    Although Apple describes the issue well in a support article, I'm surprised the issue isn't discussed more.  Perhaps this winter there will be more people talking about it.

     

    Your heart rate. What it means, and where on Apple Watch you’ll find it. - Apple Support

     

    the solution provided by Apple is to pair a Bluetooth chest HRM with the watch.  I'm starting to use Wahoo Fitness' TickrX and confident this is going to be more reliable when exercising.