Polar has released a new optical heart-rate sensor that not only can be worn on an armband during running or cycling, but also can clip onto goggles to track heart rate during swimming. The OH1+ detects heart beats through the variation in light reflected from the skin of the forearm, upper arm, or temple.
“Chest straps and wrist-based monitoring have their places in training, but OH1+ was designed as a comfortable option when scenarios call for more evolved heart rate options,” Riikka Rae, product segment manager at Polar, said in a news release.
l was provided a Polar OH1+ review unit to test last month. Overall, the sensor seemed accurate and the experience of using it was non-invasive to my exercise routine—running and weight lifting. In prior experiences with a wristwatch that tracks optically and cardio machines that rely on electrical contact sensors, I found that both systems often had difficulty keeping consistent measurements. Exactly why those other devices struggled is unclear, though the answer could be a combination of the difficulty of tracking elevated heart rates during activity or the impact of my profuse sweat on the connections.
Polar acknowledges that its electrical-conduction chest straps remain less prone to errors. But the company continues to refine its optical tracking technology, and has found that its optical measurements are “very similar” to ECG-based chest straps in running and cycling.
The OH1+ transmits data either via Bluetooth or ANT+ for real-time tracking from mobile devices. And it is compatible with apps such as Polar Beat and several others made by third parties.
SportTechie Takeaway
While the comfort and versatility of the armband may have broad appeal, the real innovation is likely the device’s adaptability for swimmers. Polar claims the OH1+ is waterproof up to a depth of 30 meters, and the goggles clip provides a helpful alternative to those who can’t wear a chest strap or watch underwater. Triathletes, who must train and race on their feet, their bikes, and in the water, may find particular benefit from the OH1+.