how accurate is the heart rate monitor

lllaass wrote:

With proper contact with the wrist it is quite accurate.

Some activities like I find with elliptical trainer, it is hard to get good contact since the arm/wrist motion tends to decrease contact and you can ge erroneous HR readings.

As I hoped to explain in my previous reply, for the best results from the heart rate sensor, it may help to move your Apple Watch more snugly and/or a little higher up your arm, further away from the flexing joint.

As also referenced in my previous reply, experience may vary by user.

Hi

Consumer Resports tested the heart rate sensor on the original Apple Watch against their highest-rated dedicated heart rate monitor and found "no significant differences" between their readings:

http://www.technobuffalo.com/2015/04/27/apple-watch-performs-well-in-consumer-re ports-tests/

Apple has not announced any changes to the heart rate sensor since then.

However, 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:

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 and wrist tattoos. As well as varying by person, skin perfusion can be reduced when exercising in the cold to levels that prevent readings:

• Your heart rate. What it means, and where on Apple Watch you’ll find it. - Apple Support
• Get the most accurate measurements using your Apple Watch - Apple Support

For workouts that involve flexing your wrists - such as when rowing - 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, along with your wrist, is clean:

Cleaning your Apple Watch - Apple Support

If you 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

With proper contact with the wrist it is quite accurate.

Some activities like I find with elliptical trainer, it is hard to get good contact since the arm/wrist motion tends to decrease contact and you can ge erroneous HR readings.