Validity and Reliability of Movesense HR+ ECG Measurements for High-Intensity Running and Cycling

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Physiological Monitoring

Background:

• Accurate physiological measurements are crucial for athletes and coaches.
• Low-cost, portable devices are needed for widespread adoption.
• Existing devices vary in accuracy and reliability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate and assess the reliability of Movesense HR+ ECG measurements against a criterion three-lead ECG.
• To compare the performance of Movesense HR+ with the Garmin HRM device.
• To develop and refine algorithms for accurate R-peak detection.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-one healthy adults underwent incremental running and cycling tests to exhaustion.
• Participants completed tests with rest periods before and after.
• Movesense HR+ and Garmin HRM data were compared to a criterion three-lead ECG using Bland-Altman analysis and correlation coefficients.

Main Results:

• Movesense HR+ demonstrated high sensitivity (99.7%) and precision (99.6%) for R-peak detection compared to the criterion.
• Garmin HRM showed lower sensitivity (84.7%) and precision (87.7%).
• Bland-Altman analysis indicated minimal mean differences for Movesense HR+ (0.23 ms at rest, 0.38 ms during exercise), while Garmin HRM showed larger differences (-8.5 ms at rest, 27.7 ms during exercise).
• Correlation between Movesense HR+ and criterion was very strong (r=0.98) during exercise, versus moderate for Garmin HRM (r=0.66).

Conclusions:

• Movesense HR+ is a valid and reliable device for ECG measurement, suitable for athletes and practitioners.
• The developed R-peak detection algorithm and data collection protocol enhance Movesense HR+ accuracy.
• Movesense HR+ offers a superior cost-effective alternative to other devices for physiological monitoring.