One consideration with ECG measurements is the accuracy in milliseconds of the R-R intervals. Values accurate to the millisecond can be used to compute HRV Heart Rate Variability metrics. (Strongly correlated with exercise recovery and heart health.)
The plethysmography optical techniques have to struggle to attain this, and don't work if any body motion is involved. I would venture to say that even measuring ECG from the hands, would have more noise and less accuracy for HRV, than a device with skin contact at the chest.
Here's a rather novel chest sensor that appears to solve many of these issues.
Authored Comments
Hugo, great article, thanks.
One consideration with ECG measurements is the accuracy in milliseconds of the R-R intervals. Values accurate to the millisecond can be used to compute HRV Heart Rate Variability metrics. (Strongly correlated with exercise recovery and heart health.)
The plethysmography optical techniques have to struggle to attain this, and don't work if any body motion is involved. I would venture to say that even measuring ECG from the hands, would have more noise and less accuracy for HRV, than a device with skin contact at the chest.
Here's a rather novel chest sensor that appears to solve many of these issues.
http://www.ampstrip.com/
Regards, William