If you own an Apple Watch, you already know it is not just a regular watch. So, wondering where to wear Apple Watch on wrist for heart rate is not out of the ordinary. The Apple Watch is designed to provide Apple users with various features that help them keep track of their exercise and overall health.
The Heart Rate measurement feature is one of the most beneficial in keeping up with one’s health. The Apple Watch can measure your heart rate during workouts by turning on the Heart Rate feature. This option will notify you if there are any causes for concern.
Where to Wear Apple Watch on Wrist for Heart Rate?
If you want to get an accurate reading of your heart rate with your Apple Watch, it is best to place it two fingers above your wrist joint and ensure that the watch fits snugly on your wrist. This means that the heart rate sensor must stay close to your skin so as to give accurate heart rate data during your workouts.
Read more: Does Apple Watch Work When Not on Wrist?
Getting an Accurate Heart Rate Measurement
Knowing your heart rate during workouts is incredibly important as it will help you see if you need to start with more intense training or if you should scale it back a bit. This is why many Apple users and fitness enthusiasts prefer the Apple Watch over other fitness watches. With the Apple Watch, users can keep track of their overall wellness.
You should check your health profile in the “My Watch” section of your iPhone before proceeding to ensure that your personal information is accurate. Here you will be able to change any incorrect information.
Additionally, you must ensure that the Heart Rate feature is enabled in the ”Privacy” settings of the smartwatch app. The heart rate monitor won’t produce readings if this setting is disabled. After you have enabled this option, you must ensure that the watch fits properly around your wrist; generally, it should fit snugly but not be too tightly wound against your skin.
This is because the sensors on a smartwatch must be close to the skin; however, they may not function well if the band is too tight or does not fit properly. You should tighten the band during your workout and loosen it once you are done.
The Watch’s face should also be on top of the wrist for the most accurate readings. If the heart rate monitor is still not functioning, the watch may be in power-saving mode. Users can check their Apple Watch settings to see if this is the case.
Read more: How to Wear Apple Watch on Right Wrist
Additional Tips for Getting an Accurate Heart Rate Measurement
Wear the Apple Watch two fingers above your wrist joint
The accuracy of the heart rate measurement depends on where you wear the watch on your wrist. The higher, the better. For this reason, you should wear your Apple Watch at least two fingers above your wrist when exercising. Your blood flow is “read” by the sensor through your tissue. The measurement is more accurate if you place the watch where the tissue is softer.
Ensure that the Apple Watch is tight enough on your wrist
As previously discussed, the Apple Watch should be worn tightly around your wrist. The heart rate measurement can be tampered with by light passing between the sensor and your wrist. Making the strap slightly tighter than usual can prevent light from affecting the measurement. It should be snug enough to prevent shifting but loose enough to allow for proper blood flow.
Start the Heart Rate function before your workout session
When you begin a measurement or start Sports Mode, wait a while before you begin exercising. For a correct measurement, the watch needs a few minutes to set up. You should also do a brief warm up. That way, when you begin exercising, your heart rate will be higher, and the heart rate sensor can more easily detect a higher heart rate.
Always update your software
The algorithms used to determine the measurement’s accuracy are always evolving. Whenever a new update becomes available, make sure you update the Watch’s software. You can keep track of new updates on the app on your iPhone.
Avoid scratching the Apple Watch and remove the sticker
For safety, some timepieces contain a sticker on the sensor. First, ensure to remove the sticker. Scratches and grime also reduce the measurement’s accuracy. This implies that you should carefully handle your watch and periodically clean the sensor. Use a moist towel to accomplish this.
Remember that your heart rate fluctuates
Keep in mind that your heart rate fluctuates constantly. It depends on how you are feeling physically. You may believe the measurement is inaccurate even though your heart rate is greater or lower than usual since you are not feeling well. Your heartbeat may be 10 beats per second faster than usual. The same is true if you have had a lot of coffee, are stressed out, or it is too hot outside.
Avoid working out in the cold
Another factor influencing your heart rate reading is how much blood flows through your skin, also called skin perfusion. Every person has different skin perfusion. Skin perfusion is also greatly impacted by the environment. If you like working out in a cold environment, your wrist’s skin perfusion might be too low, and the heart rate monitor will be unable to get an accurate reading.
Connect your Apple Watch with external heart rate monitors
If your Apple Watch’s sensors have trouble picking up your heart rate, you will not get consistent readings. Because of this reading, you can consider connecting your Apple Watch wirelessly to an external heart monitor, such as a Bluetooth chest strap. Connecting your Apple Watch to an external heart monitor will help you get an accurate heart rate reading.
Also read: How to Wear Apple Watch
Conclusion
Now you know where to wear Apple Watch on wrist for heart rate. According to Apple, you should ensure that the Apple Watch is snug enough on your wrist, but be careful not to tighten it too much.
You should make sure you leave enough space on your wrist for your skin to be able to breathe. If you tighten your Apple Watch too much, the sensors might be unable to accurately measure your heart rate.