VO2Max not computed when using Apple Watch with external heart rate monitor (Garmin, Polar, etc.)
When running with the external heart rate monitor (Garmin HRM Pro Plus in my case), the Health App does not update the VO2Max — it simply repeats the last observation obtained with the Apple Watch’s built-in optical HR sensor (I have an AW6). Taking off the strap and using the watch alone results in a new reading. But every time I use the strap, the VO2Max chart in the Health App “flatlines.” In other words, the app doesn’t compute the VO2 unless the HR data comes from the built-in optical sensor.
This is HIGHLY frustrating. The HR monitor on the watch is not accurate, and often stops providing readings; this affects all sort of stats, including VO2Max. People buy HR straps in order to get more accurate HR tracking, INCLUDING more accurate VO2Max estimations. Please address this, or at least acknowledge the issue and any possible workarounds to this (or maybe this is a hardware limitation, and a newer Apple Watch is required).
P.S. This topic was discussed two years ago: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251204981?login=true&page=2 That thread involved primarily Polar users, but also someone with a Garmin strap. I read the thread before buying my Garmin HRM Pro + strap, but I couldn’t have imagined that this bug would still be there two years later
Apple Watch Series 6
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