Headwind and heart rate

[Sarararara]

This may be a numpty question but is it normal for your heart rate to go up when you’re running into the wind?

Looking at my stats post-run, there were weird spikes which on closer analysis were where I think I remember gusty headwind.

[Buddy34 Graduate10]

I think you're working harder running into the wind so in turn you're heart rate will go up. 😊

[Dexy5 Graduate10]

Mine certainly does Sarararara!

[ArthurJG Graduate10]

Yes that would be normal because you are expending more energy to push against the wind. However, if it’s an actual spike rather than a gradual increase, it may equally well be a measurement error. If you are measuring heart rate on a watch rather than a chest strap, it’s good to be aware that the optical technology can occasionally pick up your cadence (steps per minute) instead of your heart rate. So the spikes could also be that, just a measurement error. But running into wind, just like running uphill, would certainly cause your heart rate to increase if you were doing the same speed as you were on the flat.

[Sarararara Graduate10 in reply to ArthurJG]

Thanks Arthur, on this occasion I think the spikes were due to me being buffeted by the wind. Just miffed as it raised my average hr!