Accuracy of Garmin and Polar Smart Watches to Predict VO2max

2667 Board #187 June 2 9

30 AM - 11

00 AM

Smart watches have greatly evolved since their first release. With advancements in technology, many smart watches can now estimate aerobic capacity. These watches are user-friendly and affordable but there are no current investigations that have reported accuracy to predict VO_2max.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare actual VO_2max values (AMax) to predicted VO_2max values obtained from the Garmin Forerunner 230 (230Max) and 235 (235Max) smart watches as well as the V800 Polar smart watch (PMax). The Garmin watches predict VO_2max based upon heart rate values obtained during a 10 min, self-paced outdoor run. The Polar watch predicts VO_2max based upon resting heart rate variability.

METHODS: Eighteen females (BMI=24.9 ± 3.3 kg/m², age=24.7 ± 3.8, AMax=42.9 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min) and 24 males (BMI=26.6 ± 3 kg/m², age=24.2 ± 4.4, AMax=49.5 ± 5.8 ml/kg/min) participated in this study. PMax values for each individual were obtained following a 10 min supine rest and were based upon the different training ranges that can be programed into the watch. Participants then completed a treadmill VO_2max test. Within 48 hours of completing the treadmill VO_2max test, individuals completed a 10 min, self-paced outdoor run using both Garmin smart watches. Paired sample T-tests were used to determine if there were differences between AMax and the predicted VO_2max of each watch.

RESULTS: There were significant differences between AMax and PMax (2.5 ± 6.8 ml/kg/min, p=0.029), 230Max (-0.3 ± 3.4 ml/kg/min, p=0.02) and 235Max (-1.1 ± 4.0 ml/kg/min, p=0.026) in females. In males there were significant differences between AMax values and PMax (-6.0 ± 7.7 ml/kg/min, p=0.001), 230Max (-1.1 ± 3.4 ml/kg/min, p=0.149) and 235Max (-3.2 ± 4.2 ml/kg/min, p=0.002).

CONCLUSION: In females, predicted VO_2max values were significantly different from AMax values and the differences ranged from an overestimation of 2.5 ml/kg/min to an underestimation of 1.1 ml/kg/min. In males, predicted VO_2max values were significantly different from AMax values and the watches consistently overestimated VO_2max (range -1.1 to -6.0 ml/kg/min). Caution should be taken when using these predicted values for exercise prescription especially in men.