I have noticed when setting out for a ride, that for the first 10 mins or so the heartrate is too low. Often in the 70s and 80s. Then after around 10mins, it seems to get its mojo back and record more accurately. Have tried wiggling it on my wrist, ensuring it is tight, covering with my sleeve... Is this common to other users too?
Yup, same issue here - usually takes around 5 min or so before my heart rate reflects correctly when setting off on a hike. After that it seems to work ok.
Extremely common and expected while using the oHRM. Very few are fortunate enough not to have issues with the oHRM. You'll find this not only across the Garmin forums, but doing a simple internet search on wrist based optical HR sensors. If you don't find it bothersome, a chest or arm strap will eliminate this issue.
Can anyone suggest a decent heart rate monitor for the watch then? I've been very disappointed in the heart rate monitor on this thing. I've been doing burpees and pull-ups where it would show a heart rate of 106, then when I start walking back to my office it jumps to 116...There's no way my heart rate is higher walking than doing burpees...
The Garmin soft strap works well and I find it comfortable. The HRM-Run/Tri and Swim would be overkill since the VA3 isn't compatible with all their features. I'm not familiar with other brands, so others can make recommendations.
