The ithlete blog
Welcome to the ithlete blog, the central place to get the latest company news, read real user stories, get our take on heart rate variability news and research, get top tips on using ithlete and share your thoughts.
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Training Blog: Brian Schwind – June
After 6 long months the time to taper for Ironman Coeur d’Allene 2015 has finally arrived for Brian Schwind.
HRV, Exercise, and Hydration
How key to recovery is hydrating immediately after exercise? Our latest Tuesday Tip takes a look at the relationship heart rate variability, exercise and hydration
Training Blog: Andy Dolphin – May
In his first Training Blog for ithlete, Andy Dolphin talks to us about his May training regime.
Heart Rate Variability & Health – pt.2 Predicting chronic disease
Using the Framingham data this paper focuses on heart rate variability (HRV) and resting heart rate as predictors of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, and the so-called metabolic syndrome that also includes obesity and blood fat levels.
Training blog: Andrew Tamplin – May
May saw Andrew Tamplin take on base training using ithlete Pro as his coach. A wise choice!
Research summary: A successful vs. an overtrained triathlete
Our latest research summary takes a look at a case study of heart rate variability (HRV) in two elite triathletes, one successful, one overtrained
HRV: My Key to Longevity in Ironman Training by Brian Schwind
Brian Schwind provides some helpful tips from how he uses his heart rate variability in his daily training.
The ithlete challenge
We know you're already measuring your heart rate variability (HRV) so now we're challenging you to take some basic steps to improve it! Over the next few weeks we'll be asking you to tick off goals in order to improve your sleep quality and in turn raise your HRV...
Sleep infographic
The physiological benefits of sleep, effect on heart rate variability (HRV), impact of sleep deprivation & tips for a better nights sleep! Do you have any other tips for a good nights sleep? Or if you like our sleep infographic but there are areas you'd like us to...
Nutrition, Sleep and Heart Rate Variability
A great step towards better sleep is eating balanced, nutritious meals and snacks evenly spaced throughout the day. Research has found that certain nutrients can affect sleep, from how easy it is to fall asleep at a reasonable hour to the quality of rest we get throughout the night. Equally important to all this is what impact certain foods and drinks have on our beloved heart rate variability (HRV).
Tuesday Tip: ithlete Pro convenience on your mobile
ithlete Pro is ideal for the user who values the data garnered via the ithlete mobile app and wants to extract greater insight from your daily reading.
HRV response to stress predicts degree of sleep disturbance
Research summary of an intelligent study trying to understand the relationship between daytime heart rate variability (HRV), HRV response to periods of worry and sleep disturbance.
Tips for Getting a Good Nights Sleep
A sound snooze results in increased energy and productivity, improved heart and immune system health, a better mood, even a longer life. And hey, you just feel so much better after a satisfying 8 hours of rest. But chances are, you’re not getting it. So how do we get that all-important 8 hours of sleep that we all desire? This post outlines 5 tips that will help you sleep better.
Tuesday Tip: Sleep deprivation
Many of us operate on less sleep than we would like (up to 1/3rd according to the American Sleep Disorders Association), but how many of us realize the impact sleep deprivation is having on our health and on our ability to enjoy life?
Naps, Sleep and Sports Performance
Taking a look at how elite professional soccer teams, amongst others, are prescribing naps to improve performance and make marginal gains.
Want to know more about ithlete?
Follow these four easy steps to get started with ithlete today!
Choose a heart rate sensor
To measure heart rate variability (HRV) with ithlete you’ll need a heart rate sensor. You have the option to use an ithlete finger sensor or chest strap monitor. If you have a recent iPhone, iPad or Android device you may like to use our Bluetooth Smart chest strap monitor, or alternatively grab a Polar type analogue strap (we also offer one of these) and an ithlete ECG receiver to pick up the signal. Visit the ithlete store to find your preferred sensor.
Download the ithlete app
ithlete is available on both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. If you do want to check your model of smartphone or tablet is compatible check our FAQ page.
One minute daily measurement
After waking each morning relax and sit comfortably, slip on a chest strap or finger sensor and follow the on screen instructions to get an accurate reading of your heart rate variability. Taking the measurement couldn’t be simpler and in 60 seconds you will have a personalised training recommendation for the day.
Reap the benefits of training with ithlete
The idea is quite simple. Training is all about stress and recovery. A hard session, lack of sleep, mental stress etc. will lower your number. If your reading drops significantly, take this as an early warning that you are overloading the system. On the other hand a high score lets you know you should make the most out of the day. Benefits of this include avoiding overtraining, workout optimisation, guilt free rest days, improved performance and much more!