The Verdict
Apple Health collects HRV data but provides minimal interpretation. It's best used as a data hub that syncs to more specialized apps like Elite HRV or HRV4Training. Great for data storage, limited for actionable HRV insights.
Features
- Automatic HRV logging
- Heart Rate Variability chart
- Cardio Fitness (VO2 max estimate)
- Sleep tracking
- Respiratory rate
- Health data aggregation
Pros
- Built into iOS ecosystem
- Aggregates data from all sources
- Privacy-focused design
- Free with Apple Watch
Cons
- Limited HRV analysis
- No readiness/recovery score
- Basic trend visualization
- Apple Watch required for auto-tracking
Where to Find HRV Data
In the Health app, go to Browse > Heart > Heart Rate Variability. You'll see a chart of your HRV readings over time. Apple Watch takes opportunistic readings throughout the day and during sleep, but doesn't calculate readiness scores from this data.
Using Apple Health as a Hub
Apple Health's strength is aggregating data from multiple sources. Third-party HRV apps can read and write to Health, giving you a centralized health record. Export your data anytime for analysis in spreadsheets or other tools.
Compatible Sensors
- Apple Watch
- Bluetooth Hrm