FAQ

Technical

What file formats does HRVathlete work with?

HRVathlete works with Polar files (*.hrm) and Suunto files (*.sdf). Additional file formats may be added, based on demand.

What are the computer requirements of HRVathlete?

HRVathlete will work on any computer with an internet connection. You will need to ensure that Java Script is enabled in order to view the graphs. For optimal usage, we recommend using HRVathlete in FireFox on a Windows PC with Adobe Flash installed.

Where is my data stored?

HRVathlete is an online application. The application is run from a server in Sydney, Australia. This is also where all HRVathlete data is stored. Your data is backed up daily, however you can also export your data for your own usage and backup if you wish. This can be done by using the Export function in the application.

Usage

Do I require a special heart rate monitor to use HRVathlete?

HRVathlete needs RR data in order to do it's analysis. RR data is required to do any form of HRV or beat to beat analysis. There are currently two heart rate monitors on the market that are capable of this feature: Polar RS800 range and the Suunto T6 range. Additionally, the older Polar S810 is capable of this feature. New team systems will also allow you to capture RR data; this is the case for both the Polar Team System 2 and the Suunto memory belt.

How much HRV data do I need to make the analysis accurate?

HRV varies according to age, gender, training background and sports type. Additionally, each individual has a different HRV profile. Therefore it is difficult to determine the level of fatigue an athlete is experiencing without first establishing their profile. We recommend establishing this profile over at least a 2 week period, however the more data on an athlete the better. HRVathlete uses all data from the last 12 months for an athlete to establish their baseline profile.

How often should I take a HRV measurement?

HRV is very sensitive to short term stress responses. Therefore it will closely reflect your fatigue from the last 1-2 days. However, to create a more accurate analysis of your overall level of fatigue, HRVathlete uses a longer term average. Therefore it is recommended that you capture a minimum of 4 days of data per week. Alternatively, our research has shown that 3 consecutive days of data correlates closely (r=0.92) to capturing the past 7 days.

When should I capture my HRV measurement?

It is important that your HRV measurement is captured at a similar time each day. Establishing a daily routine in which HRV is measured first thing in the morning will provide the most accurate results and also allow a better direct comparison between days. For details see the 'Capturing and importing data' document on the Support page.

Pricing

Why is there an annual fee for HRVathlete?

HRVathlete is an online application, meaning you can use it from any computer with an internet connection. The annual fee covers the costs of hosting this application, storing your data and backing up your data. Additionally, you will receive updates to the application as they are released. These updates are at no extra cost and you will not be required to undertake any installation.

How many athletes can use my HRVathlete account?

There are two account types for HRVathlete:

• Athlete version - for use of up to 3 athletes - AUD$220 per year
• Coach version - for use of up to 50 athletes - AUD$1650 per year