Watch’s heart rate monitoring fails mid-workout for “Other - Strength Training”

Question

Starts out accurate. After awhile, sometimes when I look it says my heart rate is 55-60 BPM, which is not even close. If I open the heart monitor app, it will update to an accurate measurement again after 30 seconds or so, then switching back to the workout app it will be accurate again. This happens every 5-10 minutes, but if I am careful to wake the watch after every set it doesn’t happen. Seems as if it goes to sleep and then just defaults to my resting heart rate. Watch is tight on my wrist throughout, not getting jostled and I’m not adjusting it in any way when I open the heart rate app to get it working again. Seems to be purely a SW issue that started only after the last major WatchOS was installed. I’m doing a fitness challenge and have been cheated out of thousands of calories burned this way because the active calories burned are way too low when my BPM is at 130-150 throughout an hour workout but my watch is registering a resting heart rate for some stupid reason. These sudden drops in measured heart rate show up clearly in the Health app, I have a screenshot and wish I could post it here.

Jonathan UK · Accepted Answer

HiApple 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 SupportThe sensor is likely to give better results for workouts that involve rhythmic (eg running) rather than irregular (eg weight training) 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 SupportGet the most accurate measurements using your Apple Watch - Apple SupportFor workouts that involve flexing your wrists (such as weight training), 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&#x27;m sure is the case):      Cleaning your Apple Watch - Apple SupportIf 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 SupportIf you are concerned about a possible software issue or 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:        US: Apple Watch Service Answer Center - Apple SupportElsewhere: Select your country for Apple Watch service and repair information

Watch’s heart rate monitoring fails mid-workout for “Other - Strength Training”

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