Accuracy of Wrist-Worn Heart Rate Monitors Article Swipe
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· 2016
· Open Access
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· DOI: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamacardio.2016.3340
· OA: W2530450109
Accuracy of Wrist-Worn Heart Rate MonitorsWrist-worn fitness and heart rate (HR) monitors are popular. 1,2 While the accuracy of chest strap, electrode-based HR monitors has been confirmed, 3,4 the accuracy of wrist-worn, optically based HR monitors is uncertain. 5,6 Assessment of the monitors' accuracy is important for individuals who use them to guide their physical activity and for physicians to whom these individuals report HR readings.The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy of 4 popular wrist-worn HR monitors under conditions of varying physical exertion.Methods | This study recruited 50 healthy adults.The mean (SD) age was 37 (11.3)years; the mean (SD) body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) was 23.5 (3.1); 28 participants were women (58%), and 7 participants were African American (14%).Exclusion criteria included cardiovascular disease, pacemakers, and treatment with heart rhythm medications.The protocol was approved by the Cleveland Clinic institutional review board.Participants provided written informed consent.Participants wore standard electrocardiographic limb leads and a Polar H7 chest strap monitor secured tightly to ensure skin contact.Each participant was randomly assigned to wear 2 different wrist-worn HR monitors placed tightly above the ulnar styloid.Four wrist-worn monitors were assessed: Fitbit Charge HR (Fitbit), Apple Watch (Apple), Mio Alpha (Mio Global), and Basis Peak (Basis).Heart rate was assessed with the participant on a treadmill at rest and at 2 mph, 3 mph, 4 mph, 5 mph, and 6 mph.Participants exercised at each setting for 3 minutes to achieve a steady state; HR was recorded instantaneously at the 3-minute point.After completion of the treadmill protocol, HR was recorded at 30, 60, and 90 seconds' recovery.
