[hlnx1]

Optical heart rate sensors on watches are convenient, but their accuracy varies by situation.

• At steady efforts, many wrist sensors are reasonably accurate for many people
• During intervals and rapid changes in intensity, readings often lag or misread
• Fit, skin tone, tattoos, movement and cold can affect accuracy
• Chest straps are generally more accurate for heart rate during exercise

Related: wearable technology in sport.

Have you compared your watch with a chest strap?

[hlnx1]

A simple test: wear both a chest strap and the watch during an interval session. Compare the graphs. Many people see the watch lag or show spikes during short efforts.

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