The Science of Heart Rate Variability: Health, Wellness & Performance

This video explores the history, science, and practical applications of HRV, from its roots in the 18th century and the pivotal role of the ECG, to its modern-day significance in clinical research, sports science, stress management, and wellness practices.
Learn about the different methods of measuring HRV, including time-domain, frequency-domain, and non-linear analyses, and how these approaches can reveal the intricate balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of our autonomic nervous system. Discover the importance of consistent measurement protocols and the impact of various factors like posture, breathing patterns, and measurement duration on HRV accuracy.
Gain insights into the clinical and personal health benefits of monitoring HRV, including its relationship with cardiovascular health, training adaptation, recovery, and stress management. Understand the nuances of interpreting HRV data, the significance of trends over time rather than absolute values, and how HRV can provide a personalised snapshot of your autonomic flexibility and resilience.
This video also sheds light on the practical use of HRV in the era of wearable technology, discussing the advantages and limitations of devices like the Apple Watch, Fitbit, and Garmin, and offering tips on how to accurately measure HRV using these tools. Whether you're an athlete, coach, health enthusiast, or anyone interested in the science of wellness, this video is your gateway to harnessing the power of HRV for a healthier, more balanced life.
Don't forget to check the articles cited in the description below for a deeper dive into the science of HRV.
Citations:
doi.org/10.1016/0002-9149(87)...
doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2017.00258
doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2011.00086
doi.org/10.1038/tp.2016.73
doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00213
doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.202...
doi.org/10.1161/01.cir.94.11....
0:00 What is HRV? An Introduction.
1:15 The History of HRV Measurement
2:48 The Physiology of HRV
3:50 Calculating HRV
5:00 Time-Domain Measures of HRV (including RMSSD)
7:34 Frequency-Domain Measures of HRV
8:40 Non-Linear Measures of HRV
9:36 Practical Measurement of HRV
13:03 Interpreting HRV
14:55 Wearables and HRV: The Challenges of Measuring 'Readiness'
16:15 A Home-Based HRV Measurement Protocol
17:40 The Importance of a 'Personal Frame of Reference'