Active Minutes for Low Heart Rate Users

[debbiedss]

I would like to know if it's possible to configure the Versa to track a heart rate in a way that grants active minutes to a person whose resting heart rate is 50.  My husband's heart rate reading never gives him any active minutes even though he should have them based on how hard he's working.  How do we rectify this problem?

[LZeeW]

Hello @debbiedss and welcome to the Community.  The Versa awarded active minutes when it was released.  This was changed to active zone minutes in a firmware update.  Active zone minutes use your resting heart rate in the calculation.  My RHR is usually 46-48 and has been as low as 44.  Zones change as your RHR changes.  Fitbit recommends wearing devices further away from the prominent bone on your wrist (three finger widths, not one) when exercising.  Is he wearing his Versa in a different place when exercising?

[debbiedss]

Thanks for the reply. Have you had results? So far he hasn’t moved his watch but, I’ll have him do that. What do you mean when you say firmware? He’s updated with the latest software

Sent from my iPhone

[LZeeW]

@debbiedss   Firmware is the software that's running on the device itself.  It's the software that changes when you get an "Update Tracker" message.

I personally don't need to move my Fitbit when exercising.  People with efficient hearts do need to work harder to get into different zones, because they have efficient hearts.  I used to be that person when I was younger and a distance runner -- when 5 k was a warm up, ha ha.  I make personal observations, to try and help others.  I need to be walking at least 4 mph to get to my fat burn zone.  Running and riding my bike, no problems.

Sometimes the issue is heart rate accuracy.  My Versa 3 is notoriously inaccurate at higher heart rates.  I don't remember Versa users complaining about this.  Sometime the workout type can affect heart rate accuracy.  The forearm muscle movement or tension can cause interference with the heart rate monitor.  People who use all brands of fitness trackers complain about this.

Does you husband take any kind of medicine that might affect heart rate?  If so, this can explain a lot.

Fitbit uses your maximum heart rate to calculate zones.  Users can change their zones by setting a Custom Maximum Heart Rate.  He would tap on his profile avatar > Activity & Wellness > Heart Settings > Heart Rate Zones > toggle Custom Max Heart Rate to On, then adjust it down.  I don't do that for myself.