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Heart rate lock error during running

This has happened multiple times now and I am not sure what to do about it - both on the treadmill and outside.


I will be running and then the heart rate loses its connection and either greys out or freezes while its connecting. I know DC Rainmaker said this was an issue at the beginning of his runs but I keep having it happen like 2-3 mins into the run then it won't resync the heartrate until like 5-10 mins in (maybe this was what he was referring to).


Just as an example, the other day it froze at 92bpm within the first few mins of my run for like 5 mins while it was thinking until it just jumped up to 150 (what my garmin on the other wrist was showing) and continued to match the garmin the rest of the run, then today to jumped up to above my max HR and greyed out and a few mins later when back to normal (normal being what my garmin watch on the other wrist is showing while all of this is happening).


Any thoughts? Sometimes it works perfectly but its going on like 50% of the time it has these errors. I wear it no differently when it works/doesn't work so I don't know whats going on. I've also never had problems with other watches and heart rate, have no hair on my arms there, etc. I just can't figure it out.

WATCH SERIES 3 NIKE (GPS + CELL) 42MM

Posted on Nov 14, 2017 12:29 PM

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2 replies

Nov 14, 2017 5:05 PM in response to Ray Pastore

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 Apple 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:


Wearing your Apple Watch - Apple Support


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 (which can also vary, depending on ambient temperature) and wrist tattoos:



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:

Heart rate lock error during running

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