Category: Heart Rate Variability

Can I use Garmin wearables with the Selfloops Fitness app?

Garmin has released sport watches and wrist-based fitness trackers with built-in optical heart rate monitors.

These units are able to broadcast heart rate data using ANT+ and newer models are also able to broadcast data using the Bluetooth Smart protocol.

Devices that broadcast heart rate data using the Bluetooth Smart protocol are supported by the Selfloops Fitness app.

To enable the Bluetooth Smart transmision you should use the “Virtual Run” profile in your device. This profile has been created for running on a treadmill (it also broadcasts pace and cadence via Bluetooth), but it can be used for any activity you want. 

This feature is supported on most of the 2019/2020 models. At the moment, the supported watches are the Garmin Forerunner 245, Forerunner 945, Fenix 6 Series. Please check the Garmin support website for the latest updates.

See the instructions on video below

Why does the application not connect to my heart rate monitor?

Make sure you are using a Bluetooth Smart (Bluetooth 4.0, Bluetooth Low Energy) certified heart rate monitor. 

Make sure that the heart rate monitor is not paired already with another application or device.

 Also, do not pair the heart rate monitor in the Settings of your device. 

The Bluetooth standard does not allow to have the heart rate monitor connected at the same time to multiple apps or devices.

If it still does not work, switch off and on the Bluetooth from the Settings of the device.

Exit the app and start the app again.

If you use Android 6.0 or higher, make sure you have granted the app the Location permission

The heart rate monitor gives me strange values

Does the heart rate monitor give you strange values? Is it bouncing from low to high values?
This could be a problem with the heart rate monitor itself, however, most of the times the problem can be easily fixed.
Make sure to moisture the electrodes/pads on the chest strap  before wearing the HRM. Sometimes dry electrodes cause this sort of problems.
The problem can also be caused by a depleted battery, try replacing it.
You can reset it. Check your heart rate monitor manual for more info on how to do it. In some HRM models this is how it is done. Take the battery out, turn it upside down and hold it in for 10 seconds. After that, put back the battery as usual.