This discussion has been locked.

You can no longer post new replies to this discussion. If you have a question you can start a new discussion

Garmin Fenix 6 Pro giving erroneous HR readings whilst at rest

Former Member over 5 years ago

My Fenix 6 Pro has been reading unusual HR spikes since waking today that don't correlate with my level of activity or radial pulse. The spikes are reading at greater than 160bpm whilst sitting down so it's well beyond an acceptable margin of error.

I have attempted to dry the sensor, my wrist, and confirm and suitable watch fit and placement with no effect.

I've only noticed these spikes over the last 36 hours, ever since my first open water ocean swim with the watch so I'm a bit worried it's an issue with waterproofing or something.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Dan

0 trux over 5 years ago

If it was during an outdoor activity in cold weather, it could have been due to vasoconstriction of the blood veins in your extremities. You can achieve similar effect also by tightening the strap too much. That's a common problem of all HR sensors attached to extremities. Regardless if it is from Garmin or from whoever else. HRM belt gives a more reliable results. Warming up may sometimes help too.

0 Former Member over 5 years ago in reply to trux

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately I'm lucky enough to be on holiday in Bali at the moment, and at the time I was sitting on a beach in 30°C weather, so peripheral vasoconstriction is unlikely to be the issue here! I wasn't too tight either. It sat flush to the skin but the silicon strap had enough give in it to be able to slide a finger between my skin and the strap without too much resistance.

I recognise the limitations of OHR for accurate recording during an activity, my concern with this was outside of an activity. Just sitting and resting.

Thank you for the suggestions though

0 trux over 5 years ago in reply to Former Member

Then perhaps too much sunlight entering under the watch? Or too much tan or sun-screen on your skin? Salt building up? Too much body hair? Could be a number of reasons. As you tell the technology has its limits.

0 trux over 5 years ago in reply to Former Member

I was sitting on a beach in 30°C weather, so peripheral vasoconstriction is unlikely to be the issue here! I wasn't too tight either.

Actually it is still very well possible even in such situation - for example if you try holding your breath (for example training for longer dives while snorkelling and observing the local sirens underwater). Vasoconstriction is induced also by hypoxia, so also an anaerobic exercise, or breathing excercise can trigger it. Not speaking about medical conditions, tobacco use, or other chemical influences.