Polar OH1+ HR

[Rodc88]

Hi,
I am new to rowing, started a week ago, so climbing the learning curve. Decided to buy a OH1+ after reading a few posts here. The unit connects with the model D and Ergdata but the heart rate reading doesn't go beyond 97 bpm even though I am working a reasonably strenuous session 500m/1r x 4, which I am sure the heart rate must be 100+. It is the same for other sessions that I have tried.

I wear it on my left forearm (right handed). Is there a setting or something I am not aware of?

TIA.
Rod

[mict450]

Are you wearing it with the LED side on your skin?

[Nomath]

I also found that the OH1 sometimes behaves erratic while rowing, but never does while cycling. My guess is that this is caused by movements of the lower arms. So I always use a chest strap while rowing, which I don't mind, whereas for cycling I clearly prefer the OH1.

I suggest that you first test whether the OH1 responds correctly when not using your arms. If you have stairs indoors, jump rapidly up and down between the floor and the first step. When you get breathless, your heart rate should be well above 100.

[Tsnor]

.. but the heart rate reading doesn't go beyond 97 bpm even though I am working a reasonably strenuous session 500m/1r x 4....

AFTER you row an interval, if you sit stationary, does the OH1 start reporting the correct heart rate ? If not then re-read manual, verify how your are using it. If still bad then send it back for a replacement. It should read very accurately if you are sitting still.

Aside, it takes a while for HR to get up there. As a final cross check do a moderately hard 2K. Push the last minute or so. You should see something up near 80-95% of your max HR. If OH1 is still reporting ~100 then it's useless.

I like my fitbit watch HR, but not for rowing. The reported rate is never right. I got a polar belt for rowing and am very happy with it. It still drops occasionally, but it accurate enough I can use it for heart zone training. The Fibit could not be used.

[Rodc88]

Are you wearing it with the LED side on your skin?

Yes, with the flashing lenses facing skin.

[Rodc88]

thanks for your replies, will try the tests as suggested.

[Rodc88]

AFTER you row an interval, if you sit stationary, does the OH1 start reporting the correct heart rate ?

Yes, during the rest interval, it reports a drop in heart rate, which suggests that the arm movement affects the reading?

[mict450]

Okay, that's good Rod. More than once I put the sensor in the arm band the wrong way and couldn't figure out why I was getting such bizarre readings.