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Fitness Tracker Showing Inaccurate Heart Rate: Causes and Fixes

Wrist heart rate is usually close during steady exercise but less accurate during intervals, weights and cold weather.

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About Fitness Tracker Inaccurate Heart Rate Readings

Optical sensors shine light into the skin to measure blood flow. Loose fit, movement, sweat, tattoos and cold skin can all disturb the reading. Rapid changes in effort, like sprints, are especially hard for wrist sensors to track.

If you need accurate data for training, a chest strap paired to your tracker is the most reliable fix.

Why it happens and how to fix it

Fit

Wear the tracker snugly a finger's width above the wrist bone during exercise.

Clean sensor

Wipe the sensor and your skin; sweat and lotion interfere.

Movement

Wrist flexing during weights and cycling can skew readings.

Cold

Cold reduces blood flow at the wrist. Warm up first or use a chest strap.

Chest strap

Chest straps measure electrical signals and are more accurate during intense exercise.

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Quick buying tips

What matters most in fitness tracker inaccurate heart rate readings

  1. Wear the tracker snugly a finger's width above the wrist bone during exercise.
  2. Wipe the sensor and your skin; sweat and lotion interfere.
  3. Wrist flexing during weights and cycling can skew readings.
  4. Cold reduces blood flow at the wrist. Warm up first or use a chest strap.
  5. Chest straps measure electrical signals and are more accurate during intense exercise.
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Answers

Fitness Tracker Inaccurate Heart Rate Readings: common questions

What is the best fitness tracker inaccurate heart rate reading to buy?

One of our strongest picks is the Amazfit Band 7, a standout in our Best Fitness Trackers Under $50 list. The Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker is another excellent choice.

How do I choose the right fitness tracker inaccurate heart rate readings?

Start with your main use and budget, then compare our shortlists: Best Fitness Trackers Under $50, Best Fitness Trackers Under $150, Best Fitness Trackers for Swimming.

What should I look for when buying fitness tracker inaccurate heart rate readings?

Wear the tracker snugly a finger's width above the wrist bone during exercise.

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