The need-to-knows:
What is HRV?
Your heart doesn’t beat at a uniform clip; different amounts of time pass between consecutive heartbeats.
Heart rate variability is a measurement of this time variation between heartbeats in milliseconds.
If your HRV is an orchestra, your ANS is its conductor.
The ANS comprises your parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) and sympathetic (fight-or-flight) networks.
These networks constantly send signals that dictate how your body uses resources.
The more attuned your HRV is to these signals, the higher it will be.
But over time, you want your general HRV trends to be high.
Some people naturally have a higher HRV than others.
(Note: RMSSD is equivalent to HRV.)
Genetics also play a significant role in your HRV score,as shown by research on twins5.
You could follow an identical health routine as someone else but still have wildly different readings.
“HRV is highly individualized, fluctuating daily and from person to person.
This is because right when you wake up, your body will (hopefully) be fully recovered.
As the day goes on, workouts and stressors will tax your nervous system and bring your score down.
These wearables estimate your HRV using pulse readings.
Let’s say your HRV is usually in the 70-80 range but then dips to the 50s one morning.
But since your HRV is partially genetically influenced, you might only raise it so much.
“If you are sick, it can be as easy as waiting to recover.
Read: Pretty much all of us!
Declines in HRV can be a signal that you’re getting sick or need to take it easy.
Those with heart arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation may find that their HRV data is disrupted ornot entirely accurate.
FAQ
What is a good HRV for my age?
Heart rate variability is personal, and a “good” or “bad” score is relative.
Should I worry if my HRV is low?
Having a consistently low HRV could put you at risk forcardiovascular issues.
However, constantly stressing about your HRV will likely only rev up your sympathetic nervous system more.
and let go of the rest.
A steady increase in your personal score indicates that your body has nailed the balance of exertion and recovery.
Ready to take your readings more seriously?
Check outthe most accurate and detailed HRV monitors of the year.
