Do you own a fitness watch to monitor your daily workout progress? Now, what are the parameters your fitness watch measures to show the far you have gone regarding your fitness routine? Have you ever tried to use your fitness watch for another activity other than monitoring your fitness progress? Can you employ a fitness watch to measure blood pressure?
Right, if you need to find out whether a fitness watch can measure blood sugar, stay tuned. Herein, we shall get it right whether fitness watches perform blood pressure measuring duties. Further, we shall explain how to use them for such activity and their accuracy rate. Continue reading to ascertain the truth about the topic.
Can a Fitness Watch Measure Blood Pressure?
Still, most people lack an idea of duties the fitness BiT Watch can do other than monitoring fitness progress. Usually, experts suggest that only devices with inflatable tubes can measure blood pressure accurately. However, experts suggest that the fitness watch can also measure the blood pressure parameter. So, do fitness watches measure the blood pressure parameter?
Yes, fitness watches are excellent inventions we can employ to measure the blood pressure parameter. Fitness watches are of different models and most of them boast features for measuring a variety of body parameters. Apart from measuring an individual’s blood pressure, they can calculate step counts, the number of calories burned, and other important fitness parameters. This helps individuals to monitor and detect problems in your heart.
Now that we have ascertained that the fitness watch can measure blood pressure, how do they measure blood pressure? Right, these devices are worn on the wrist and this is where they measure the blood pressure. However, a lot of considerations are available for achieving accurate and effective results.
For instance, the wrist must be at the heart level when measuring this parameter. You can prove this by noting the difference when measuring at the arm and when at the heart level. Expect a high difference since arteries located at the wrist aren’t deeper as those at the arm. Moreover, the wrist arteries are narrower compared to those at the arm.
Fitness watches have electronic sensors that measure blood pressure automatically. Their cuffs inflate automatically thereby making the arteries narrow. As a result, blood flow gets restricted through the wrist arteries. During this time, pressure creates up and is slowly released to allow slow flowage of blood through the wrist arteries.
Now, this is when the pressure sensors of the fitness watch detect oscillations. The device will record the lowest and the highest value which later calculates the diastolic and systolic pressure. Fitness watches employ the oscillometric technique to calculate blood pressure and display it after a few seconds.
How to Use a Fitness Watch to Measure Blood Pressure
Fitness watches are of different models in the market boasting different features. However, they all employ similar techniques to measure blood pressure and other fitness parameters. However, as a goal-oriented person, getting accurate results depends on how you use your machine. Below is an expert guide on how to use a fitness watch to measure blood pressure.
Step One
You need to relax or rest enough before you start measuring the blood pressure parameter using these devices. If you are from an intensive workout, take time to relax. Sit down, and have a rest.
Step Two
Usually, the results might vary if you try measuring this parameter at different times. So, for assurance of accurate results, experts recommend measuring the pressure twice or more. After your measure samples, compare the results.
Step Three
When measuring blood pressure, ensure you wear the device on the wrist. Most people believe that tightening the watch can give them accurate results. However, this is just a myth and the best way is to ensure it’s not too loose or tight as well.
Step Four
Before you measure, ensure your armrests are somewhere flat. Such surfaces can be on the table or any other flat point. Consequently, the upper arm should rest at the heart level since this is where experts recommend for accurate results.
If you intend to measure blood pressure with these devices, there are things you should avoid. For instance, it’s not recommended to use a cigarette or any caffeine during this time. Furthermore, you should avoid all physical activities and have a rest before you take measurements.
Accuracy of Fitness Watches in Measuring Blood Pressure
Most people rush into using their devices and trusting the results without determining whether they are accurate. At times, they might not provide accurate results you should depend on. Therefore, before using your device, why can’t you consult an expert?
Ascertaining your fitness watch is accurate to use for measuring blood pressure is simple. Just get to the nearest doctor’s office with your fitness tracker. Measure your blood pressure using the doctor’s device and your device as well. If they offer similar values or closest values, then your watch is accurate.
However, blood pressure readings can vary depending on a lot of factors. The environment you use the fitness watch matters a lot in the results you will obtain. Take an instance measuring blood pressure during the day and at night. Usually, the reading during the day is totally different to that taken at night.
Nevertheless, the pressure increases after vigorous exercises and lowers when the body comes to rest. Other diets also contribute to a difference in an individual’s blood pressure. Just ascertain whether the watch is accurate by comparing results with the doctor’s apparatus to continue using it.
Conclusion
Fitness watches are great modern innovations we designed to perform multiple functions. They measure the number of calories burned, the steps you make, and general fitness progress. Apart from these, you can employ them to detect heart problems and measure blood pressure.
Our article provides fitness watch owners the assurance that these devices are perfect for measuring blood pressure. Further, we have gotten information on how to employ them to measure this parameter and their general accuracy. Get them, try them and you will enjoy monitoring your daily health status and fitness progress.