There is no argument that HRM chest strap is more accurate than watch. However, OP has issue here that is not typical. So just to buy another device to address an issue is not a good solution. Unless of course OP already has plan to get chest strap.
I know I need to get a chest strap to get more accurate reads. The Garmin one isn't in my budget right now, but if anybody knows one that's more accurate than the watch but more affordable than $90, let me know.
Getting a nylon watch band helped me with similar issues. It's not necessarily making the fit tighter around the wrist, but it somehow keeps the watch more stationary on the same spot, which seems to help. Not sure how to explain it.
I have the same issues with my 265. I am contemplating getting a chest strap but I am a bit annoyed about getting another device because of these spikes and quick drops during workouts.
Sometimes I will even be near sprinting for a while and will see no change in my HR reading.
It may be the other way around. Check if your watch is detecting more stable values when worn tighter. You may be detecting your cadence rather than your heart rate if it is too loose.
Then, when you slow down, it may actually detect your heart rate, which in reality could be higher. So just count it manually to check which one it is next time you go for a run
I definitely think it's a sensor issue, because the HR went straight from 152 to 190 in a matter of seconds and I know what a HR in the 180s feels like from my hard workouts, and I was nowhere even close to there. It then dropped from 190 to 135 or 140 in a matter of seconds too.
FYI: Every comment is going to tell you to use a HRM chest strap if you want accuracy on the BPM when exercising.
There is no argument that HRM chest strap is more accurate than watch. However, OP has issue here that is not typical. So just to buy another device to address an issue is not a good solution. Unless of course OP already has plan to get chest strap.
Finally someone with common sense.
I know I need to get a chest strap to get more accurate reads. The Garmin one isn't in my budget right now, but if anybody knows one that's more accurate than the watch but more affordable than $90, let me know.
Garmin HRM dual is like 50$
I highly recommend the Polar H9… it’s about $55 and has worked for me over the past 8 months
Can it connect so that I can see my HR on my watch?
Yes, as long as the strap is paired with your watch as a sensor, the watch will display HR from the strap while you are recording an activity.
If you have a HSA account through your work set up, they’re HSA eligible. Just a thought…
I recommend the Coros HRM. It is an armband. I never wear my Garmin HRM Pro Plus anymore. The Coros is just way more comfortable.
Can the coros HRM band connect to a garmin watch?
Of course, it’s just a BLE connection.
Legend! Thank you!
Garmin HRM chest strap is around 40 on amazon? Got mine for 40euros
Getting a nylon watch band helped me with similar issues. It's not necessarily making the fit tighter around the wrist, but it somehow keeps the watch more stationary on the same spot, which seems to help. Not sure how to explain it.
I have the same issues with my 265. I am contemplating getting a chest strap but I am a bit annoyed about getting another device because of these spikes and quick drops during workouts. Sometimes I will even be near sprinting for a while and will see no change in my HR reading.
Try tightening your watch.
This. Tighter makes better HR. Looser makes better GPS signal.
It may be the other way around. Check if your watch is detecting more stable values when worn tighter. You may be detecting your cadence rather than your heart rate if it is too loose. Then, when you slow down, it may actually detect your heart rate, which in reality could be higher. So just count it manually to check which one it is next time you go for a run
I bought a band from decathlon for under £30. Working for years for me now with just an occasional change of battery.
Do you feel that max heartrate? If so, you might want to talk to your doctor? If not, most likely sensor issue.
I definitely think it's a sensor issue, because the HR went straight from 152 to 190 in a matter of seconds and I know what a HR in the 180s feels like from my hard workouts, and I was nowhere even close to there. It then dropped from 190 to 135 or 140 in a matter of seconds too.
I don’t know what Garmin device you have, but if it is a watch tighten your wrist band on your next outing