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Heart rate sensors

Former Member
Former Member over 7 years ago
hi all,

I’ve read the famous Fitbit threads regarding Bluetooth and emf radiation off radio signals such as Bluetooth. I really like garmin products because you can switch the Bluetooth off which seems to be unique to garmin products.

My question is whether heart rate sensors in general are dangerous for you? I understand percentages/properties would be potentially low but I’m still wondering whether emf is produced (is it off the type of light used on the sensor?) and some people tell stories of for example the Fitbit ionic leaving a burning mark where the heart rate sensors have been - has anyone had this issue with the vivomove hr.

Out of all the fitness trackers and watches the Vivomove is favourite - it’s design is beautiful and minimal. I’m just nervous of any dangers fitness trackers may carry. Can anyone shed any light on this?
  • 0 over 7 years ago
    the heart rate features use basically bright green LEDs and photodiodes. All they do is absorb light and turn it into energy. By knowing how much light is going out and being absorbed back in, it's possible to detect pulses. There shouldn't be any significant emissions from this.

    Bluetooth and other radio signal emitting devices can and do have standards which they have to adhere to for consumer safety, however, these products use BLE (low energy) which is much lower than WiFi and other BT.

    In case you're wondering, it is possible on the VMHR to turn off HR all the time, and you can turn on HR automatically only during activity.
    You can also turn off the BT at any time. It will be a bit of a hassle to sync, but if you're used to working with Express it could be fine.


  • Former Member
    0 Former Member over 7 years ago
    Thank you so much for your detailed response - I have been searching the internet everywhere for a good response like you have posted.

    I’m sure I read somewhere that HR sensors are bad like Bluetooth but they probably didn’t know what they were talking about.

    Regarding turning Bluetooth off could you clarify what you mean by express - is this an option? I was hoping I could have it turned off and then only turn on to sync (or plug in if there is an option).

    thanks again,
  • 0 over 7 years ago
    I purposely got the garmin because it was one of the very few to offer the ability to turn bluetooth off! So yes, you are able to leave it off 99% of the day and turn it on just to sync... that's what I do. A couple flips of the menu turns it off/on.