Many users, to whom we offered to participate in beta testing, were surprised at how the app can measure heart activity, especially through the camera. Nevertheless, everything that happens in Wellhero is based on research.
What exactly are we measuring?
We measure the intervals between heartbeats with millisecond precision and observe how diverse they are and how they change during the measurement; this is known as Heart Rate Variability or HRV. Based on these intervals, we calculate metrics that help understand the functioning of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in the body.
The research on which the application is based includes:
An Overview of Heart Rate Variability Metrics and Norms
Guidelines: Heart rate variability
Influence of Mental Stress on Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability
Artificial neural networks-based classification of emotions using wristband heart rate monitor data
How do we measure this?
We use three methods:
- Sport heart rate monitors connected via Bluetooth capable of transmitting heartbeat intervals
- Apple Watch
- Phone camera
Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor
We trust reputable device manufacturers such as Garmin and Polar and recommend using their products.
Additionally, there is a study validating measurements with the Polar H7 chest strap using a 3-channel ECG recorder.
Apple Watch
Apple Watch provides heart rate intervals when using the Breathe feature in the Mindfulness app.
Research confirms the suitability of Apple Watch for measuring HRV.
iPhone camera
The phone camera can fairly accurately measure changes in the color of blood vessels when illuminated with a flashlight. This method is called photoplethysmography.
There are studies confirming its effectiveness.
Using Rear Smartphone Cameras as Sensors for Measuring Heart Rate Variability
Do you have any questions?
Feel free to email us at [email protected] for any questions related to Wellhero.