Fitbit data

[thelastgizmo]

I have started to wear an old Fitbit to monitor myself during my C25K journey. I have noticed that since I have started it (about 3 weeks) my resting heart rate has dropped from 54 to 49. I know the Fitbit is not the most sophisticated or accurate device but is this something to be expected?

Also I have found a way to download detailed heart rate figures from the Fitbit. the app only displays 5 minute averages and so can miss the details. It is surprising what the peaks are, but taken with a pinch of salt! But a useful trend indicator.

[Hidden]

When doing sports like running, your body becomes more fit and your resting heart rate can indeed drop. Now a drop of 5 bpm over 3 weeks seems a lot though. I speak rather over multiple weeks and months that your heart rate drops slightly. Must say though, 49 is really low! My resting heart rate was this night for example 74. Have always been in the 70's.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador in reply to Hidden]

49 is NOT 'really low' - it's comparatively low, compared to you.

Heart rate is very age, genetic, lifestyle and fitness dependent. Elite endurance athletes can have resting HRs in the low 30s.

thelastgizmo - that reduction from 54 to 49 is absolutely fine and to be expected as you get fitter - resting HR is a well-used measure of your fitness. It's a sign your heart has got a bit stronger (it's muscular after all), and a bit bigger, so that it can pump more oxygen-carrying blood with less beats. Andy yes, Fitbits are not the best for these things and should only be used as rough guide.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Always be cautious about basing trends on two readings.........you need to have readings over a period of time to see actual progress.

Resting HR is highly likely to drop as you get fitter. Always make sure that you take readings under the same conditions.

[thelastgizmo Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

The figures I mentioned are over a period from 21st January until 2nd Jan taken daily. I'm on blood pressure tablets so that slows things down a bit. Maybe as I get fitter I can cut down on some of them!