What are the best ways to measure heart rate?

Basically, you can measure your heart rate in two ways:

1. Using a chest strap with a heart rate sensor on your chest, providing very stable measurements. This method is considered the gold standard for heart rate measurement and is based on technology called ECG (electrocardiography).

2. Through optical heart rate measurements, where the sensor is typically built into a smartwatch. Such watches are commonly referred to as wrist-worn heart rate monitors, and this is the most user-friendly way for most people to measure their heart rate. The underlying sensor technology is called PPG (photoplethysmography). PPG measures changes in the volume of blood vessels under the skin as the heart pumps blood through the body. This method is sensitive to measurement errors, and it's crucial to use the watch correctly to avoid disturbances in the pulse signal, such as interference from daylight.

By using a smartwatch, you can continuously measure your heart rate, even when you're not exercising. Continuous measurements help us at Mia Health provide you with more comprehensive insights into your health. However, note that measurements from writs-worn sensors may sometimes be imprecise and register a higher or lower heart rate than your actual heart rate. Measurements will be more accurate if you use a chest strap.

It's easy to combine heart rate measurements with a watch and a chest strap. Most providers of smart watches also offer chest straps that are compatible with their watches. This way, you can wear and activate the chest strap when you're exercising, ensuring both accurate and continuous pulse measurements.

Learn more about how to use your heart rate monitor here.

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