How to avoid false heart rate readings when the device is not worn

Applies to: Street X Ignite 3 Grit X2 Grit X2 Pro Vantage M3 Vantage V3 Polar Loop

When the device is not worn and non‑wear is not detected, it may continue trying to measure heart rate. This can result in false heart rate readings and incorrect sleep detection.

How the device is placed affects how non‑wear is detected.
See the recommended placement options below for Polar watches and Polar Loop. These placements help the device recognize that it is not being worn and avoid unnecessary heart rate measurement.

Polar watches

When Polar watches are not worn, place the device on a hard, flat surface so that it rests stably and does not move. You can use any of the placement options below.

  • Display facing up

    Place the device flat with the sensor (LEDs) against the surface, with the wristbands lying flat and straight.

  • Display facing down

    Place the device flat with the display against the surface, and the wristbands flat and straight.

  • On its side

    The side button can face up or down. Open the wristbands so that they form a 90‑degree angle. This helps keep the watch stable. The buckle may face forwards or sideways.

    If the wristbands are soft or flexible, it may be easier to place the watch with the display facing up or down.

Polar Street X (custom wristbands)

Polar Street X has custom wristbands that may not lie flat or stay in a fixed angle when the watch is placed on a surface. In this case, it is enough that the watch itself rests stably on a hard, flat surface. The wristbands can rest naturally or hang freely, as long as the watch does not tilt or move.

Polar Loop

When Polar Loop is not worn, place it on a hard, flat surface so that it rests stably and does not move.

Polar Loop can be placed on its side with the band left open so that it rests stably on the surface. The band should remain threaded through the buckle to help keep the device stable. It does not matter which side of the device is against the surface, as long as the device remains stable.

Avoid soft surfaces

Avoid placing the device on soft surfaces such as beds or sofas. Soft surfaces can allow the device to tilt or move slightly, which may prevent non‑wear detection and lead to false heart rate readings and incorrect sleep detection.

Placing the device on a hard, flat surface helps keep the device stable and allows non‑wear detection to work as intended.

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