missjaima
Level 1
(4 points)
Q: Watch HRM not accurate during exercise
I've seen a few posts on this; but not a solid answer as of yet. So, I thought I'd give it a shot.
Every single time I start tracking my barre exercise on the fitness app, as "Other", it will show my HR is at 50 or maybe go as high as 70. However, if I get out of the app and go to my glances and go to the HRM, it will read 130-150 depending on what part of my workout I'm at. The 130-150 is the correct HR - but when I go back to the fitness app and check it there, it will show the higher HR, but then go back down to the 50-70 range.
That being said, it appears the inaccuracy is within the Fitness app itself since I can check my HR on the Apple HRM and it is correct.
I've read that it won't read correctly if it's not snug, flat to the skin, can't have tattoos, etc, etc... I have it snug, and flat to my skin, and no tattoos... I even went to the extent of turning off wifi and Bluetooth as I've read this could impair the reading - nope. Didn't make a difference. Nor am I lifting weights, doing pull-ups, or push-ups. My movements are actually rather rhythmic.
I'm sorely disappointed with the fitness portion of the Apple watch because of this HR issue. I have been seriously considering going back the Fitbit Charge HR I had before. I only got the Apple watch because I like to have my devices all synced together seamlessly and I like the look of the Apple watch over Fitbit.
Does anyone have an answer as to why the HRM does this? I'm clearly not the only one this happens to. Also, is this something that will be addressed with OS3? If not, I'm afraid I will be giving my watch to my daughter and going back to Fitbit.
**I also wanted to add that, yes, I have shut down and restarted the watch. HRM still not correct.**
Apple Watch, Watch OS 2.2.2
Jonathan UK
Level 7
(28,975 points)
Hi
Apple advises that, even under ideal conditions, Apple Watch may not be able to record a reliable heart rate reading every time for every.
For the best performance from the heart rate sensor during workouts, Apple suggests that you consider tightening your watch band beforehand and loosening it again afterwards.
As you are already aware, the sensor is likely to give better results for workouts that involve rhythmic (eg running) rather than irregular (eg boxing) movements. Besides wrist tattoos, another issue that can impact sensor performance is skin perfusion.
More information:
Your heart rate. What it means, and where on Apple Watch you’ll find it. - Apple Support
Use the Workout app on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
If you continue to experience issues, for more consistent readings, you may wish to consider pairing an external heart rate monitor / Bluetooth chest strap to your watch:
Use Bluetooth accessories with your Apple Watch - Apple Support
