Heart rate takes a while to lock-in on watch during a workout

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Level 1

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Heart rate takes a while to lock-in on watch during a workout

All - I've been using my watch to track my outdoor runs. I use the built-in workout app and have a series 3 LTE running the latest non-beta software. On a fairly consistent basis, it takes the watch several minutes before it will lock-in on my heart rate. Sometimes I'll be almost a mile in before my heart rate even shows up on the display. I've tried running the heart rate app before I start my workout and my heart rate almost always shows up within a few seconds. Once I start the workout, the heart rate either stays at one constant rate for several minutes (which I know is not what my heart is doing) or the heart rate metric is just blank. I've attached a few screen shots showing the heart rate graphs of my last 3 runs (exported to Strava via Rungap). Is anyone else having this issue or is this just standard for the wrist-based sensor? Thanks in advance!

Chris

Posted on Oct 21, 2017 9:58 AM

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Answer 1

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Riverguy79 Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 25, 2017 8:38 AM in response to Jonathan UK

So if anyone else is having this problem, what worked for me was moving the watch higher up my arm (away from my wrist) before I start my run. I move it up far enough that its pretty snug, but not uncomfortable. Now when I run, the heart rate locks on quickly and stays pretty solid for the duration of the workout.

Chris

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Answer 2

Jonathan UK

Level 10

164,015 points

Oct 21, 2017 10:45 AM in response to Riverguy79

Hi

Apple advises that, even under ideal conditions, Apple Watch may not be able to record a reliable heart rate reading every time for everybody.

For the best performance from the heart rate sensor during workouts, ensure that you wear your watch snugly (but not too tightly) on the top of your wrist. Apple suggests that you consider tightening the band before starting a workout and loosening it again afterwards.

The sensor is likely to give better results for workouts that involve rhythmic (eg running) rather than irregular (eg boxing) movements. Other issues that can impact sensor performance include skin perfusion and wrist tattoos:

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

For any workouts that involve flexing your wrists (such as when lifting weights, for example), it may help to move your watch a little higher up your arm, away from the flexing joint.

It may also help to check that the back of your Apple Watch is clean (along with your wrist, which I'm sure is the case):

Cleaning your Apple Watch - Apple Support

If you continue to experience issues with recording your heart rate during workouts, then, for more consistent readings, you may wish to consider pairing an external heart rate monitor / Bluetooth chest strap to your Apple Watch:

Use Bluetooth accessories with your Apple Watch - Apple Support

If you are concerned about a possible hardware defect with your Apple Watch, then I suggest that you contact Apple Support (remote diagnostics and/or mail-in service may be available, if required), make a Genius Bar reservation or visit an Apple Authorised Service Provider for assistance:

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