Wissenschaft White Paper und Publikationen

White Paper und Publikationen

Detaillierte Beschreibungen des technologischen Hintergrunds und wissenschaftliche Publikationen liefern professionelles, wissenschaftliches Wissen und Verständnis.

In den White Papers wird der wissenschaftliche Hintergrund der Firstbeat-Technologien in unterschiedlichen Anwendungsbereichen erläutert. Im Abschnitt „Publikationen“ sind Studien aufgeführt, in denen Firstbeat-Lösungen verwendet wurden. Die verschiedenen wissenschaftlichen Zusammenhänge umfassen Arbeitsmedizin, Schlafforschung, Psychotherapie, Verhaltensforschung und Sportcoaching. Firstbeat-Verfahren wurden und werden bereits bei der Forschung an ca. 80 Universitäten und Forschungsinstituten in Europa, Nordamerika und Australien verwendet. Darüber hinaus dienen die zahlreichen Erkenntnisse der White Papers und Studien der ständigen Neuevaluierung und -validierung der Analysen von Firstbeat in den Bereichen Lifestyle Assessment und professioneller Sport.

Bitte beachten Sie, dass sowohl die White Paper als auch die Publikationen auf Englisch sind.

 

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen im Zusammenhang mit:

Stress, recovery, sleep, and wellbeing

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Motivation, stress, recovery, and physical activity of teachers: discoveries with the Reiss Motivation Profile® and the Firstbeat® measurement Tuominen PPA & Mayor P 2023 Journal of Public Health: 1-11 Cross-sectional study; primary school teachers, N = 66 Applied use Stress and recovery; sleep; physical activity Motives such as Acceptance, Eating, Family, Physical Activity, Power, Tranquillity, and Vengeance were found to have a relationship with Firstbeat-measured outcomes like physical activity, sedentary behaviour, stress, recovery and sleep among teachers.
Mindfulness-Based Intervention effect on the psychophysiological marker of self-regulation in women with endometriosis-related chronic pain Moreira MF, Gamboa OL & Oliveira MAP 2023 The Journal of Pain Randomized Controlled Trial (pilot), N = 54 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports heart rate belt was used to collect data in a study exploring the impact of mindfullness intervention in helping to ease pain symptoms with women having endometriosis.
Exploring the interplay of stress, recovery, and physical activity among teachers, nursing staff, and ICT workers: a comparative study. Tuominen PPA 2023 Journal of Public Health Cross-sectional study; teachers, nursing staff, ICT workers, N = 211 Applied use Stress and recovery; sleep; physical activity Stress, physical activity and recovery needs between different working groups were studied using Firstbeat methods.
Can you feel the excitement? Physiological correlates of students‘ self-reported emotions Ketonen EE, Salonen V, Lonka K & Salmela‐Aro K 2023 British Journal of Educational Psychology 93, S1, 113-129. Case-study; high school students, N = 136 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study exploring the physiological correlates of students‘ self-reported emotions by combining biosignal data and experience sampling method data.
Increased physical workload in home care service is associated with reduced recovery from work Mänttäri S, Säynäjäkangas P, Selander K & Laitinen J 2023 International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health 96, (5), 651-660. Cross-sectional study; home care service workers, N = 95 Applied use HR; MET; VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat methods were used to study physical workload and recovery in home care service workers. Higher occupational physical workload reduced the HRV of home care workers during the workday, leisure time, and sleep.
Protocol for an observational study of working conditions and musculoskeletal health in Swedish online retail warehousing from the perspective of gender and race/ethnicity Jackson J, Mathiassen, SE, Rydström K & Johansson K 2023 BMC Public Health Longitudinal Study Protocol The aim of the 3-year study is to describe working conditions and musculoskeletal health in online retail warehousing. The study plan includes Firstbeat methods.
Physiological evidence of escalating stress during COVID-19: a longitudinal assessment of child welfare workers Griffiths, A, Link, K, Haughtigan, K, Beer, O W J, Powell, L, & Royse, D 2023 Journal of Public Child Welfare Observational study; child welfare professionals, N = 32 Applied use Stress and recovery; HRV The study used Firstbeat Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 over a four-month period to assess the stress of child welfare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic. The study revealed that HRV remained below the norms for a healthy population as participants experienced consistent and prolonged physiological stress. When examined relatively to the agency’s lifting of COVID restrictions and returning to face-to-face service delivery, stress levels began to further rise and the participants’ ability to achieve a state of physiological relaxation significantly decreased.
Heart Rate Variability Measurement through a Wearable Device: Another Breakthrough for Personal Health Monitoring? Li K, Cardoso C, Moctezuma-Ramirez A, Elgalad A & Perin E 2023 Preprints 2023, 2023080732. Review The study presented Firstbeat Sports as one potential wearable device for HRV monitoring. The study reviewed the recent progress in HRV tracking with wearable devices and the value of HRV in health monitoring and disease diagnosis.
A Narrative Review of Commercial Platforms Offering Tracking of Heart Rate Variability in Corporate Employees to Detect and Manage Stress McLachlan CS & Truong H 2023 Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease, 10(4), 141. Narrative review The study presented a narrative of some commercial stress management platforms based on physiological HRV measurements, some COVID-19 related findings, and utilization of HRV in general.
Zoom-Based Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement Plus Just-in-Time Mindfulness Practice Triggered by Wearable Sensors for Opioid Craving and Chronic Pain Garland EL, Gullapalli BT, Prince KC, Hanley AW, Sanyer M, Tuomenoksa M & Rahman T  2023 Mindfulness, 14(6), 1329-1345. Randomized controlled trial pilot; opioid-treated chronic pain patiens, N =63 Applied use stress and recovery Firstbeat analysis of stress via Garmin Vivosmart device was tested in study utilizing Mindfullness-Oriented Recovery Enchancement and Just-In-Time Adaptive Intervention for opioid-treated chronic pain patients.
Association of physical activity and heart rate variability in people with overweight and obesity: A systematic review Sinha MK, Vaishali K, Arun GM, Shivashankar KN, Shashikiran U & Ravi SN 2023 F1000 research, 12, 156. Review The review considered the association of physical activity, obesity and HRV. The presented studies included also Firstbeat methods.
Assessing the efficacy of a job rotation for improving occupational physical and psychosocial work environment, musculoskeletal health, social equality, production quality and resilience at a commercial laundromat: protocol for a longitudinal case study Jackson JA, Sund M, Barlari Lobos G, Melin L & Mathiassen SE 2023 BMJ Open 13(5): e067633 Study protocol The study aims to develop a job rotation with company stakeholders, perform a process evaluation of the implementation, and determine the extent to which the intervention improves the physical and psychosocial work environment, indicators of health, gender and social equality among workers and production quality and resilience. Firstbeat methods will be used.
Effects of walking football on adherence, safety, quality of life and physical fitness in patients with prostate cancer: Findings from the PROSTATA_MOVE randomized controlled trial Capela A, Antunes P, Coelho CA, Garcia CL, Custódio S, Amorim R, Costa T, Vilela E, Teixeira M, Amarelo A, Silva J, Joaqum A, Viomonte S, Brito J & Alves AJ 2023 Frontiers in Oncology, 13, 1129028 Randomized clinical trial; male cancer patients, N = 50 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study regarding the feasibility and impact of a walking football program on quality of life, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and balance program in men with prostate cancer under androgen deprivation therapy.
Effects of exercise training on cardiac toxicity markers in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy with anthracyclines: a randomized controlled trial Antunes P, Joaquim A, Sampaio F, Nunes C, Ascensão A, Vilela E, Teixera M, Capela A, Marques C, Viamonte S, Alves A & Esteves D  2023 European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 30(9), 844-855. Randomized controlled trial; women with early-state breast cancer, N = 93 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR monitoring in a study exploring the effects of a supervised exercise training programme on cardiac toxicity markers in women with breast cancer receiving anthracycline-containing chemotherapy.
Influence of physical fitness and weight status on autonomic cardiac modulation in children Latorre-Román PÁ, de la Casa Pérez A, Pancorbo-Serrano D, Consuegra-Gonzalez PJ, Salas-Sánchez J, Muñoz-Jiménez M, Aragón-Vela J, Ramírez Lucas JM, Cabrera-Linares J C & Párraga-Montilla JA 2023 Pediatric research, 10.1038/s41390-023-02676-1 Cross-sectional study; healthy children, N = 152 Applied use HR; HRR Aerobic Firstbeat Bodyguard and Firstbeat Sports was used in a study providing reference values for cardiovascular modulation at rest, during maximal exercise test and recovery after exercise in Caucasian children according to weight status and cardiorespiratory fitness level.
Home-based testing protocol to measure physiological responses to everyday activities in ME: a feasibility study Clague-Baker N, Tyson S, Leslie K, Dawes H, Bull M & Hilliard N 2023 Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior Experimental study; individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, N = 70 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat’s well-being measurement was used in a study assessing the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based testing protocol to measure physiological responses in ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue) to everyday activity. Participants wore a portable metabolic assessment system and a physiological stress monitor (Firstbeat). Blood pressure, HR, oxygen saturation and lactic acid were assessed during a range of everyday positions and activities in their own homes up to 6 days. Physiological measurements revealed potential abnormalities that varied between individuals. Physiological monitoring was perceived positively, and all participants indicated that they would volunteer for the study again and would recommend it to others. This supports the need for further work to develop a reliable, valid and accurate testing protocol to assess, diagnose and monitor ME.
Physiological Responses to Organizational Stressors Among Police Managers Di Nota PM, Scott SC, Huhta J-M, Gustafsberg H & Andersen JP 2023 Research Square (pre-print) Observational field study; training police managers, N = 25 Applied use HR Police officers demonstrate increased risk of physical and mental health conditions due to repeated and prolonged exposure to stressful occupational conditions. The study tested the hypothesis that police managers will display significant physiological reactivity before, during, and after engaging in reality-based scenarios and used Firstbeat for physiology monitoring. Significant increases in HR relative to rest were observed during all tasks, and in anticipation of several tasks. Greater increases in reactive HR were associated with longer recovery times.
Motivation, stress, recovery, and physical activity of teachers: discoveries with the Reiss Motivation Profile® and the Firstbeat® measurement Tuominen PPA & Mayor P 2023 Journal of Public Health: 1-11 Cross-sectional study; primary school teachers, N = 66 Applied use Stress and recovery; sleep; physical activity Motives such as Acceptance, Eating, Family, Physical Activity, Power, Tranquillity, and Vengeance were found to have a relationship with Firstbeat-measured outcomes like physical activity, sedentary behaviour, stress, recovery and sleep among teachers.
Mindfulness-Based Intervention effect on the psychophysiological marker of self-regulation in women with endometriosis-related chronic pain Moreira MF, Gamboa OL & Oliveira MAP 2023 The Journal of Pain Randomized Controlled Trial (pilot), N = 54 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports heart rate belt was used to collect data in a study exploring the impact of mindfullness intervention in helping to ease pain symptoms with women having endometriosis.
Exploring the interplay of stress, recovery, and physical activity among teachers, nursing staff, and ICT workers: a comparative study. Tuominen PPA 2023 Journal of Public Health Cross-sectional study; teachers, nursing staff, ICT workers, N = 211 Applied use Stress and recovery; sleep; physical activity Stress, physical activity and recovery needs between different working groups were studied using Firstbeat methods.
Can you feel the excitement? Physiological correlates of students‘ self-reported emotions Ketonen EE, Salonen V, Lonka K & Salmela‐Aro K 2023 British Journal of Educational Psychology 93, S1, 113-129. Case-study; high school students, N = 136 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study exploring the physiological correlates of students‘ self-reported emotions by combining biosignal data and experience sampling method data.
Increased physical workload in home care service is associated with reduced recovery from work Mänttäri S, Säynäjäkangas P, Selander K & Laitinen J 2023 International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health 96, (5), 651-660. Cross-sectional study; home care service workers, N = 95 Applied use HR; MET; VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat methods were used to study physical workload and recovery in home care service workers. Higher occupational physical workload reduced the HRV of home care workers during the workday, leisure time, and sleep.
Protocol for an observational study of working conditions and musculoskeletal health in Swedish online retail warehousing from the perspective of gender and race/ethnicity Jackson J, Mathiassen, SE, Rydström K & Johansson K 2023 BMC Public Health Longitudinal Study Protocol The aim of the 3-year study is to describe working conditions and musculoskeletal health in online retail warehousing. The study plan includes Firstbeat methods.
Physiological evidence of escalating stress during COVID-19: a longitudinal assessment of child welfare workers Griffiths, A, Link, K, Haughtigan, K, Beer, O W J, Powell, L, & Royse, D 2023 Journal of Public Child Welfare Observational study; child welfare professionals, N = 32 Applied use Stress and recovery; HRV The study used Firstbeat Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 over a four-month period to assess the stress of child welfare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic. The study revealed that HRV remained below the norms for a healthy population as participants experienced consistent and prolonged physiological stress. When examined relatively to the agency’s lifting of COVID restrictions and returning to face-to-face service delivery, stress levels began to further rise and the participants’ ability to achieve a state of physiological relaxation significantly decreased.
Heart Rate Variability Measurement through a Wearable Device: Another Breakthrough for Personal Health Monitoring? Li K, Cardoso C, Moctezuma-Ramirez A, Elgalad A & Perin E 2023 Preprints 2023, 2023080732. Review The study presented Firstbeat Sports as one potential wearable device for HRV monitoring. The study reviewed the recent progress in HRV tracking with wearable devices and the value of HRV in health monitoring and disease diagnosis.
A Narrative Review of Commercial Platforms Offering Tracking of Heart Rate Variability in Corporate Employees to Detect and Manage Stress McLachlan CS & Truong H 2023 Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease, 10(4), 141. Narrative review The study presented a narrative of some commercial stress management platforms based on physiological HRV measurements, some COVID-19 related findings, and utilization of HRV in general.
Zoom-Based Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement Plus Just-in-Time Mindfulness Practice Triggered by Wearable Sensors for Opioid Craving and Chronic Pain Garland EL, Gullapalli BT, Prince KC, Hanley AW, Sanyer M, Tuomenoksa M & Rahman T  2023 Mindfulness, 14(6), 1329-1345. Randomized controlled trial pilot; opioid-treated chronic pain patiens, N =63 Applied use stress and recovery Firstbeat analysis of stress via Garmin Vivosmart device was tested in study utilizing Mindfullness-Oriented Recovery Enchancement and Just-In-Time Adaptive Intervention for opioid-treated chronic pain patients.
Association of physical activity and heart rate variability in people with overweight and obesity: A systematic review Sinha MK, Vaishali K, Arun GM, Shivashankar KN, Shashikiran U & Ravi SN 2023 F1000 research, 12, 156. Review The review considered the association of physical activity, obesity and HRV. The presented studies included also Firstbeat methods.
Assessing the efficacy of a job rotation for improving occupational physical and psychosocial work environment, musculoskeletal health, social equality, production quality and resilience at a commercial laundromat: protocol for a longitudinal case study Jackson JA, Sund M, Barlari Lobos G, Melin L & Mathiassen SE 2023 BMJ Open 13(5): e067633 Study protocol The study aims to develop a job rotation with company stakeholders, perform a process evaluation of the implementation, and determine the extent to which the intervention improves the physical and psychosocial work environment, indicators of health, gender and social equality among workers and production quality and resilience. Firstbeat methods will be used.
Effects of walking football on adherence, safety, quality of life and physical fitness in patients with prostate cancer: Findings from the PROSTATA_MOVE randomized controlled trial Capela A, Antunes P, Coelho CA, Garcia CL, Custódio S, Amorim R, Costa T, Vilela E, Teixeira M, Amarelo A, Silva J, Joaqum A, Viomonte S, Brito J & Alves AJ 2023 Frontiers in Oncology, 13, 1129028 Randomized clinical trial; male cancer patients, N = 50 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study regarding the feasibility and impact of a walking football program on quality of life, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and balance program in men with prostate cancer under androgen deprivation therapy.
Effects of exercise training on cardiac toxicity markers in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy with anthracyclines: a randomized controlled trial Antunes P, Joaquim A, Sampaio F, Nunes C, Ascensão A, Vilela E, Teixera M, Capela A, Marques C, Viamonte S, Alves A & Esteves D  2023 European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 30(9), 844-855. Randomized controlled trial; women with early-state breast cancer, N = 93 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR monitoring in a study exploring the effects of a supervised exercise training programme on cardiac toxicity markers in women with breast cancer receiving anthracycline-containing chemotherapy.
Influence of physical fitness and weight status on autonomic cardiac modulation in children Latorre-Román PÁ, de la Casa Pérez A, Pancorbo-Serrano D, Consuegra-Gonzalez PJ, Salas-Sánchez J, Muñoz-Jiménez M, Aragón-Vela J, Ramírez Lucas JM, Cabrera-Linares J C & Párraga-Montilla JA 2023 Pediatric research, 10.1038/s41390-023-02676-1 Cross-sectional study; healthy children, N = 152 Applied use HR; HRR Aerobic Firstbeat Bodyguard and Firstbeat Sports was used in a study providing reference values for cardiovascular modulation at rest, during maximal exercise test and recovery after exercise in Caucasian children according to weight status and cardiorespiratory fitness level.
Home-based testing protocol to measure physiological responses to everyday activities in ME: a feasibility study Clague-Baker N, Tyson S, Leslie K, Dawes H, Bull M & Hilliard N 2023 Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior Experimental study; individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, N = 70 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat’s well-being measurement was used in a study assessing the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based testing protocol to measure physiological responses in ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue) to everyday activity. Participants wore a portable metabolic assessment system and a physiological stress monitor (Firstbeat). Blood pressure, HR, oxygen saturation and lactic acid were assessed during a range of everyday positions and activities in their own homes up to 6 days. Physiological measurements revealed potential abnormalities that varied between individuals. Physiological monitoring was perceived positively, and all participants indicated that they would volunteer for the study again and would recommend it to others. This supports the need for further work to develop a reliable, valid and accurate testing protocol to assess, diagnose and monitor ME.
Physiological Responses to Organizational Stressors Among Police Managers Di Nota PM, Scott SC, Huhta J-M, Gustafsberg H & Andersen JP 2023 Research Square (pre-print) Observational field study; training police managers, N = 25 Applied use HR Police officers demonstrate increased risk of physical and mental health conditions due to repeated and prolonged exposure to stressful occupational conditions. The study tested the hypothesis that police managers will display significant physiological reactivity before, during, and after engaging in reality-based scenarios and used Firstbeat for physiology monitoring. Significant increases in HR relative to rest were observed during all tasks, and in anticipation of several tasks. Greater increases in reactive HR were associated with longer recovery times.
Measuring psychosocial stress with heart rate variability-based methods in different health and age groups Seipäjärvi SM, Tuomola A, Juurakko J, Rottensteiner M, Rissanen APE, Kurkela JLO, Kujala UM, Laukkanen JA & Vikgren J 2022 Physiological Measurement, 43 (5) Cross-sectional study; healthy young and middle-aged subjects, and patients with cardiometabolic risk factors, N = 197 Validation Stress and recovery; HR; HRV The study validated Relax-Stress Intensity, RSI, used as quantification of stress and recovery responses in Firstbeat Life, and examined cortisol and cardiac responses in the context of Trier Social Stress Test (TSST-G) among healthy subjects and patients. The results showed stress reactions during TSST-G as indicated by significant responses of HR, RMSSD, RSI, Perceived Stress (PS), and salivary cortisol (CRT). Correlation and regression analyses implied RSI being the strongest predictor of CRT response, while HR was more closely associated with PS. The authors concluded that the HRV-based stress index mirrors responses of CRT, which is an independent marker for physiological stress, around TSST-G. Thus, the HRV-based stress index may be used to quantify physiological responses to psychosocial stress across various health and age groups.
The Effect of Healthy Lifestyle Changes on Work Ability and Mental Health Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial Shiri R, Väänänen A, Mattila-Holappa P, Kauppi K & Borg P 2022 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19, 13206. Randomized Controlled Trial; working age adults, N = 319 Applied use Stress; Sleep Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment data was used in a study examining the effects of healthy lifestyle changes on work ability, sleep, and mental health.
Professional Chronic Stress – Clinical, Physiological, and Biological Evaluation Doscan AM & Spiru L 2022 Medical Case Repo, 4(1): 1-4 Case study; a female reporting chronic stress, N = 1 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a case study evaluating the effectiveness of subjective questionnaires and objective measurements in evaluating stress and as personalized tools for preventing stress-induced pathologies.
A Technology-Assisted Telephone Intervention for Work-Related Stress Management: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Muuraiskangas ST, Honka AM, Junno U, Nieminen HO & Kaartinen JK 2022 Journal of Medical Internet Research, 24(7):e26569 Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial; adults, N = 49 Applied use Stress and recovery; Physical Activity; Sleep Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study investigating whether a technology-assisted telephone intervention for stress management is feasible for increasing mental well-being or decreasing the time use of coaches.
Studying Physiological Synchrony in Couple Therapy through Partial Directed Coherence: Associations with the Therapeutic Alliance and Meaning Construction Avdi E, Paraskevopoulos E, Lagogianni C, Kartsidis P & Plaskasovitis F 2022 Entropy, 24, 517 A single-case, mixed-method design; a couple, N = 2 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat’s stress metric was used in a study examining the physiological synchrony in one-couple therapy in relation to the therapeutic alliance and a narrative analysis of meaning construction in the sessions.
Cardiac Evaluation of Exercise Testing in a Contemporary Population of Preschool Children: A New Approach Providing Reference Values Latorre-Román PÁ, Martínez-Redondo M, Salas-Sánchez J, Consuegra-González PJ, Sarabia-Cachadiña E, Aragón-Vela J & Párraga-Montilla JA 2022 Children, 9, 654 Cohort study; healthy children, N =167 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports were used in a study that provides reference values of autonomic cardiac function at rest, during maximal exercise testing, and during recovery for Spanish preschool children.
Parent Stress and Trauma, Autonomic Responses, and Negative Child Behaviors Fogelman N, Schwartz J, Chaplin TM, Jastreboff AM, Wendy K. Silverman WK & Rajita Sinha R 2022 Child Psychiatry & Human Development Experimental study; parents with 2-5 year old children, N = 68 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study to record parents HRV when studying if parent stress and trauma are associated with and interact with altered autonomic function during the toy wait task, an acute parent–child interaction challenge, to predict greater negative child behaviors.
Associations Between Adolescents‘ Subjectively Experienced Emotions and Psychophysiological Reactions in Achievement Situations. Kiuru N, Trög A, Pasanen M, Tourunen A, Mikkonen J, Ahonen T & Penttonen M 2022 Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 68(1):39-71. Project MUSE Experimental study; early adolescents, N = 190 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used for HRV analysis in a study investigating the associations of early adolescents’ subjectively experienced emotions and psychophysiological reactions in achievement situations.
Continuous mHealth Patch Monitoring for the Algorithm-Based Detection of Atrial Fibrillation: Feasibility and Diagnostic Accuracy Study Santala OE, Lipponen JA, Jäntti H, Rissanen TT, Tarvainen MP, Laitinen TP, Laitinen TM, Castrén M, Väliaho E, Rantula OA, Naukkarinen NS, Hartikainen JEK, Halonen J & Martikainen TJ 2022 JMIR Cardio, 6(1):e31230 Case-control study; Emergeny care patients with an atrial fibrillation (N = 79) or sinus rhythm (N = 99), N = 178 Validation RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device (mHealth patch) was used for RR-interval data collection. Thereafter, a commercial arrhythmia analysis software (Awario, Heart2Save) was used for automatic AF screening from the HRV data. The arrhythmia detection algorithm resulted in a subject-based atrial fibrillation (AF) detection accuracy of 97.2%, a sensitivity of 100%, and a specificity of 94.9%. The time-based AF detection accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the arrhythmia detection algorithm were 98.7%, 99.6%, and 98.0%, respectively. The authors concluded that the 24-hour HRV monitoring by the mHealth patch device enabled accurate automatic AF detection. Thus, the wearable mHealth patch device with arrhythmia analysis is a novel method for AF screening.
How are learning experiences and task properties associated with adolescents’ emotions and psychophysiological states? Kiuru N, Malmberg L-E, Eklund K, Penttonen M, Ahonen T & Hirvonen R 2022 Contemporary Educational Psychology 71, 102095 Experimental study; early adolescents, N = 190 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study examining whether learning experiences (value of success, mastery experience) and task properties (challenge) are related to early adolescents’emotional responses and psychophysiological states (autonomic nervous system, ANS) in achievement situations in an ambulatory laboratory.
Occupational Burnout Is Linked with Inefficient Executive Functioning, Elevated Average Heart Rate, and Decreased Physical Activity in Daily Life – Initial Evidence from Teaching Professionals Pihlaja M, Tuominen PPA, Peräkylä J & Hartikainen KM 2022 Brain Science, 12, 1723 Cross-sectional study; Teaching professionals, N = 28 Applied use HR; HRV; step count; sleep duration Firstbeat well-being measures were used in a study exploring the interaction of burnout with executive functions, HR, HRV, and physical activity in daily life. The subjects with burnout had more challenges in executive functions, higher average HR and lower numbers of steps in daily life than those without it. The authors concluded that burnout is linked with compromised executive functions along with alterations in cardiac physiology and physical activity in daily life. Such alterations may be easily detected with wearable devices, opening possibilities for novel biomarkers of burnout and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
Comprehensive self-tracking of blood glucose and lifestyle with a mobile application in the management of gestational diabetes: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (eMOM GDM study) Kytö M, Markussen LT, Marttinen P, Jacucci G, Niinistö S, Virtanen SM, Korhonen TE, Sievänen H, Vähä-Ypyä H, Korhonen I, Heinonen S & Koivusalo SB 2022 BMJ Open, 12(11):e066292. Study protocol; pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus, N = 200 Protocol The paper presents the protocol of the eMOM study aiming to evaluate the effects of comprehensive and real-time self-tracking with eMOM gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) mobile application on glucose levels in women with GDM, and more broadly, on different other maternal and neonatal outcomes. Firstbeat methods are used for objective measurements regarding well-being behaviors of the mothers.
A Comprehensive User Modeling Framework and a Recommender System for Personalizing Well-Being Related Behavior Change Interventions: Development and Evaluation Honka AM, Nieminen H, Similä H, Kaartinen J & Van Gils M 2022 IEEE Access, vol. 10, pp. 116766-116783 Experimental study; employees, N = 50 Applied use Stress and recovery; physical activity; sleep The study presents a comprehensive theory-based framework of user features, the virtual individual (VI) model, to support the extensive personalization of digital well-being interventions and introduced a prototype of health recommendation system including Firstbeat (With-Me). The study reports the preliminary validity and usefulness of the system evaluated in a real-life health-coaching program.
Comprehensive cardiac evaluation to maximal exercise in a contemporary population of prepubertal children Latorre-Román PA, Floody PD, Martínez-Redondo M, Salas-Sánchez J, Consuegra-González PJ, Aragón-Vela J, Robles-Fuentes A, Sarabia-Cachadiña E & Párraga-Montilla JA 2022 Pediatric Research volume 92, 526–535 Experimental study; healthy children 7–11 years of age, N = 512 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports was used to determine sex- and age-specific reference values for cardiac autonomic function at rest, during maximal exercise and the recovery phase in prepubertal children.
Sympathetic Vagal Balance and Cognitive Performance in Young Adults during the NIH Cognitive Test Lee J & Shields RK 2022 Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 7(3): 59 Experimental study; young people without cognitive impairment, N = 62 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat was used for HRV measurement and analysis in a study determining whether HRV are increased with cognitive performance during the NIH Cognitive Test (Picture Sequence, Dimensional Change Card Sort, Flanker, and List Sorting). The study found that arousal level influences performance during a cognitive test.
Acute Low Force Electrically Induced Exercise Modulates Post Prandial Glycemic Markers in People with Spinal Cord Injury Petrie MA, Kimball AL & Shields RK 2022 Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 7(4), 89 Experimental study; participants wit and without spinal cord injury, N = 41 Applied use HR Firstbeat was used for HR monitoring in a study examining if low force electrically induced exercise (LFE) will modulate the post prandial insulin and glucose response in people with and without spinal cord injury. The study found that LFE attenuates certain metabolic blood biomarkers during a glucose challenge and may offer a lifestyle strategy to regulate metabolic responses after eating among people with spinal cord injury.
Cardiorespiratory function, resting metabolic rate and heart rate variability in coal miners exposed to hypobaric hypoxia in highland workplace Yang S, Tian C, Yang F, Chen Q, Geng R, Liu C, Wu X & Lam W 2022 PeerJ 10:e13899 Experimental study; coal mining workers, N = 23 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat was used for HRV analysis in a study comparing the physiological characteristics (ventilatory parameters, circulation parameters, resting metabolic rate and HRV) of coal miners working at disparate altitudes (highland at 4500m vs lowland at less than 100m above sea-level). The results implicated that long-term intermittent exposure to high altitude can lead miners to an intensified respiration, a compromised circulation and a profound sympathetic-parasympathetic imbalance, whereas the resting metabolic rate in highland miners does not distinctly decline.
Measuring psychosocial stress with heart rate variability-based methods in different health and age groups Seipäjärvi SM, Tuomola A, Juurakko J, Rottensteiner M, Rissanen APE, Kurkela JLO, Kujala UM, Laukkanen JA & Vikgren J 2022 Physiological Measurement, 43 (5) Cross-sectional study; healthy young and middle-aged subjects, and patients with cardiometabolic risk factors, N = 197 Validation Stress and recovery; HR; HRV The study validated Relax-Stress Intensity, RSI, used as quantification of stress and recovery responses in Firstbeat Life, and examined cortisol and cardiac responses in the context of Trier Social Stress Test (TSST-G) among healthy subjects and patients. The results showed stress reactions during TSST-G as indicated by significant responses of HR, RMSSD, RSI, Perceived Stress (PS), and salivary cortisol (CRT). Correlation and regression analyses implied RSI being the strongest predictor of CRT response, while HR was more closely associated with PS. The authors concluded that the HRV-based stress index mirrors responses of CRT, which is an independent marker for physiological stress, around TSST-G. Thus, the HRV-based stress index may be used to quantify physiological responses to psychosocial stress across various health and age groups.
The Effect of Healthy Lifestyle Changes on Work Ability and Mental Health Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial Shiri R, Väänänen A, Mattila-Holappa P, Kauppi K & Borg P 2022 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19, 13206. Randomized Controlled Trial; working age adults, N = 319 Applied use Stress; Sleep Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment data was used in a study examining the effects of healthy lifestyle changes on work ability, sleep, and mental health.
Professional Chronic Stress – Clinical, Physiological, and Biological Evaluation Doscan AM & Spiru L 2022 Medical Case Repo, 4(1): 1-4 Case study; a female reporting chronic stress, N = 1 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a case study evaluating the effectiveness of subjective questionnaires and objective measurements in evaluating stress and as personalized tools for preventing stress-induced pathologies.
A Technology-Assisted Telephone Intervention for Work-Related Stress Management: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Muuraiskangas ST, Honka AM, Junno U, Nieminen HO & Kaartinen JK 2022 Journal of Medical Internet Research, 24(7):e26569 Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial; adults, N = 49 Applied use Stress and recovery; Physical Activity; Sleep Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study investigating whether a technology-assisted telephone intervention for stress management is feasible for increasing mental well-being or decreasing the time use of coaches.
Studying Physiological Synchrony in Couple Therapy through Partial Directed Coherence: Associations with the Therapeutic Alliance and Meaning Construction Avdi E, Paraskevopoulos E, Lagogianni C, Kartsidis P & Plaskasovitis F 2022 Entropy, 24, 517 A single-case, mixed-method design; a couple, N = 2 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat’s stress metric was used in a study examining the physiological synchrony in one-couple therapy in relation to the therapeutic alliance and a narrative analysis of meaning construction in the sessions.
Cardiac Evaluation of Exercise Testing in a Contemporary Population of Preschool Children: A New Approach Providing Reference Values Latorre-Román PÁ, Martínez-Redondo M, Salas-Sánchez J, Consuegra-González PJ, Sarabia-Cachadiña E, Aragón-Vela J & Párraga-Montilla JA 2022 Children, 9, 654 Cohort study; healthy children, N =167 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports were used in a study that provides reference values of autonomic cardiac function at rest, during maximal exercise testing, and during recovery for Spanish preschool children.
Parent Stress and Trauma, Autonomic Responses, and Negative Child Behaviors Fogelman N, Schwartz J, Chaplin TM, Jastreboff AM, Wendy K. Silverman WK & Rajita Sinha R 2022 Child Psychiatry & Human Development Experimental study; parents with 2-5 year old children, N = 68 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study to record parents HRV when studying if parent stress and trauma are associated with and interact with altered autonomic function during the toy wait task, an acute parent–child interaction challenge, to predict greater negative child behaviors.
Associations Between Adolescents‘ Subjectively Experienced Emotions and Psychophysiological Reactions in Achievement Situations. Kiuru N, Trög A, Pasanen M, Tourunen A, Mikkonen J, Ahonen T & Penttonen M 2022 Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 68(1):39-71. Project MUSE Experimental study; early adolescents, N = 190 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used for HRV analysis in a study investigating the associations of early adolescents’ subjectively experienced emotions and psychophysiological reactions in achievement situations.
Continuous mHealth Patch Monitoring for the Algorithm-Based Detection of Atrial Fibrillation: Feasibility and Diagnostic Accuracy Study Santala OE, Lipponen JA, Jäntti H, Rissanen TT, Tarvainen MP, Laitinen TP, Laitinen TM, Castrén M, Väliaho E, Rantula OA, Naukkarinen NS, Hartikainen JEK, Halonen J & Martikainen TJ 2022 JMIR Cardio, 6(1):e31230 Case-control study; Emergeny care patients with an atrial fibrillation (N = 79) or sinus rhythm (N = 99), N = 178 Validation RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device (mHealth patch) was used for RR-interval data collection. Thereafter, a commercial arrhythmia analysis software (Awario, Heart2Save) was used for automatic AF screening from the HRV data. The arrhythmia detection algorithm resulted in a subject-based atrial fibrillation (AF) detection accuracy of 97.2%, a sensitivity of 100%, and a specificity of 94.9%. The time-based AF detection accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the arrhythmia detection algorithm were 98.7%, 99.6%, and 98.0%, respectively. The authors concluded that the 24-hour HRV monitoring by the mHealth patch device enabled accurate automatic AF detection. Thus, the wearable mHealth patch device with arrhythmia analysis is a novel method for AF screening.
How are learning experiences and task properties associated with adolescents’ emotions and psychophysiological states? Kiuru N, Malmberg L-E, Eklund K, Penttonen M, Ahonen T & Hirvonen R 2022 Contemporary Educational Psychology 71, 102095 Experimental study; early adolescents, N = 190 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used in a study examining whether learning experiences (value of success, mastery experience) and task properties (challenge) are related to early adolescents’emotional responses and psychophysiological states (autonomic nervous system, ANS) in achievement situations in an ambulatory laboratory.
Occupational Burnout Is Linked with Inefficient Executive Functioning, Elevated Average Heart Rate, and Decreased Physical Activity in Daily Life – Initial Evidence from Teaching Professionals Pihlaja M, Tuominen PPA, Peräkylä J & Hartikainen KM 2022 Brain Science, 12, 1723 Cross-sectional study; Teaching professionals, N = 28 Applied use HR; HRV; step count; sleep duration Firstbeat well-being measures were used in a study exploring the interaction of burnout with executive functions, HR, HRV, and physical activity in daily life. The subjects with burnout had more challenges in executive functions, higher average HR and lower numbers of steps in daily life than those without it. The authors concluded that burnout is linked with compromised executive functions along with alterations in cardiac physiology and physical activity in daily life. Such alterations may be easily detected with wearable devices, opening possibilities for novel biomarkers of burnout and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
Comprehensive self-tracking of blood glucose and lifestyle with a mobile application in the management of gestational diabetes: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (eMOM GDM study) Kytö M, Markussen LT, Marttinen P, Jacucci G, Niinistö S, Virtanen SM, Korhonen TE, Sievänen H, Vähä-Ypyä H, Korhonen I, Heinonen S & Koivusalo SB 2022 BMJ Open, 12(11):e066292. Study protocol; pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus, N = 200 Protocol The paper presents the protocol of the eMOM study aiming to evaluate the effects of comprehensive and real-time self-tracking with eMOM gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) mobile application on glucose levels in women with GDM, and more broadly, on different other maternal and neonatal outcomes. Firstbeat methods are used for objective measurements regarding well-being behaviors of the mothers.
A Comprehensive User Modeling Framework and a Recommender System for Personalizing Well-Being Related Behavior Change Interventions: Development and Evaluation Honka AM, Nieminen H, Similä H, Kaartinen J & Van Gils M 2022 IEEE Access, vol. 10, pp. 116766-116783 Experimental study; employees, N = 50 Applied use Stress and recovery; physical activity; sleep The study presents a comprehensive theory-based framework of user features, the virtual individual (VI) model, to support the extensive personalization of digital well-being interventions and introduced a prototype of health recommendation system including Firstbeat (With-Me). The study reports the preliminary validity and usefulness of the system evaluated in a real-life health-coaching program.
Comprehensive cardiac evaluation to maximal exercise in a contemporary population of prepubertal children Latorre-Román PA, Floody PD, Martínez-Redondo M, Salas-Sánchez J, Consuegra-González PJ, Aragón-Vela J, Robles-Fuentes A, Sarabia-Cachadiña E & Párraga-Montilla JA 2022 Pediatric Research volume 92, 526–535 Experimental study; healthy children 7–11 years of age, N = 512 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports was used to determine sex- and age-specific reference values for cardiac autonomic function at rest, during maximal exercise and the recovery phase in prepubertal children.
Sympathetic Vagal Balance and Cognitive Performance in Young Adults during the NIH Cognitive Test Lee J & Shields RK 2022 Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 7(3): 59 Experimental study; young people without cognitive impairment, N = 62 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat was used for HRV measurement and analysis in a study determining whether HRV are increased with cognitive performance during the NIH Cognitive Test (Picture Sequence, Dimensional Change Card Sort, Flanker, and List Sorting). The study found that arousal level influences performance during a cognitive test.
Acute Low Force Electrically Induced Exercise Modulates Post Prandial Glycemic Markers in People with Spinal Cord Injury Petrie MA, Kimball AL & Shields RK 2022 Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 7(4), 89 Experimental study; participants wit and without spinal cord injury, N = 41 Applied use HR Firstbeat was used for HR monitoring in a study examining if low force electrically induced exercise (LFE) will modulate the post prandial insulin and glucose response in people with and without spinal cord injury. The study found that LFE attenuates certain metabolic blood biomarkers during a glucose challenge and may offer a lifestyle strategy to regulate metabolic responses after eating among people with spinal cord injury.
Cardiorespiratory function, resting metabolic rate and heart rate variability in coal miners exposed to hypobaric hypoxia in highland workplace Yang S, Tian C, Yang F, Chen Q, Geng R, Liu C, Wu X & Lam W 2022 PeerJ 10:e13899 Experimental study; coal mining workers, N = 23 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat was used for HRV analysis in a study comparing the physiological characteristics (ventilatory parameters, circulation parameters, resting metabolic rate and HRV) of coal miners working at disparate altitudes (highland at 4500m vs lowland at less than 100m above sea-level). The results implicated that long-term intermittent exposure to high altitude can lead miners to an intensified respiration, a compromised circulation and a profound sympathetic-parasympathetic imbalance, whereas the resting metabolic rate in highland miners does not distinctly decline.
Women’s embodied experiences of using wearable digital self-tracking health technology: a review of the qualitative research literature Del Busso L, Brottveit G, Torp Løkkeberg S & Glubbe G 2021 Helth Care for Women International Review of scientific literature Review Firstbeat stress data was described as one case in a review study aiming to identify and synthesize the existing qualitative research literature on women’s experiences of using wearable digital self-tracking health technology.
Mobile health solutions for atrial fibrillation detection and management: a systematic review Hermans ANL, Gawalko M, Dohmen L, van der Velden RMJ, Betz K, Duncker D, Verhaert DVM, Heidbuchel H, Svennberg E, Neubeck L, Eckstein J, Lane DA, Lip GYH, Crijns HJGM, Sanders P, Hendriks JM, Pluymaekers NAHA & Linz D 2021 Clinical Research in Cardiology Systematic review of 208 studies Review The study represented results of Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 within a systematic review on the available mobile Health (mHealth) solutions, including handheld and wearable devices, implantable loop recorders, as well as mobile platforms and support systems in atrial fibrillation (AF) detection and management.
Evidence for the association between physiological and emotional states in adolescents and young adults without psychopathology under ecologically valid conditions Zenker M, Venz J, Koenig J, Voss C, Beesdo-Baum K & Pieper L 2021 Psychophysiology, Vol. 58, Issue 10 Cohort study; young subjects, n = 549 Applied use RR-intervals; HRV The association between ANS activity via RMSSD and emotional states occurring under natural conditions in daily life was investigated. The subjects’ mood and optimism/pessimism were assessed over 4 days simultaneously with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 recording. Lower vagal activity was found in mood states accompanied by high arousal (wakefulness, mania) and greater vagal activity in mood states with low arousal (calmness, pessimism).
Parents at the sport competition: How they react, feel and cope with the event Prosoli R, Lochbaum M & Baric R 2021 Pedagogy of Physical Culture and Sports, 25 (2): 114-2. Case study; parents, n = 2 Applied use HR; energy expenditure; Training effect This case study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 to collect HRV data and Firsbeat Sports for data analysis when observing the cardiovascular, metabolic and emotional responses of parents to watching their child compete in Taekwondo.
Sleep-time physiological recovery is associated with eating habits in distressed working-age Finns with overweight: secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial Järvelä-Reijonen E, Järvinen S, Karhunen L, Föhr T, Myllymäki T, Sairanen E, Lindroos S, Peuhkuri K, Hallikainen M, Pihlajamäki J, Puttonen S, Korpela R, Ermes M, Lappalainen R, Kujala UM, Kolehmainen M & Laitinen J 2021 Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, Vol 16: 23 Cross-sectional study; psychologically distressed adults with overweight, n = 252 Applied use; lifestyle intervention Stress and recovery; HRV The study used Firstbeat’s stress assessment when investigating whether physiological recovery during sleep relates to eating habits, i.e., eating behaviour and diet quality.
Influence of Non-Occupational Physical Activity on Burnout Syndrome, Job Satisfaction, Stress and Recovery in Fitness Professionals Marín-Farrona M, Léon-Jiménez M, García-Unanue J, Gallardo L, Liguori G & López-Fernández J 2021 International Journal of Environtal Research and Public Health, 18 (18), 9489 Cross-sectional study; fitness professionals, n = 26 Applied use Stress and recovery; HRV The study used Firstbeat in examining the effect of non-occupational physical activity on the stress and recovery levels of fitness professionals, and association on physiological metrics on burnout symptoms, working conditions and job satisfaction.
Heart Rate Variability and Firstbeat Method for Detecting Sleep Stages in Healthy Young Adults: Feasibility Study Kuula L & Pesonen A 2021 JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021;9(2):e24704 Validation study; healthy adults, n = 20 Validation Sleep The study validated Firstbeat’s sleep stage analysis method, and concluded that Firstbeat is a feasible method with sufficient validity to measure nocturnal sleep stage variation.
Exploring Stress and Recovery Among High-Achieving Career Development Event Teams: A Mixed Methods Study Bowling AM & Thieman EB 2020 Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(2), 142-161 Case study; Teachers, n = 3 Applied use Stress and recovery The study used Firstbeat system for assessing stress among School Based Agricultural Education (SBAE) teachers.
Assessing the user experience and usability of the PRECIOUS system: a randomized controlled trial in obese patients Castellano-Tejedor C, Moreno J, Knittle K, Nurmi J et al. 2020 Informatics for Health and Social Care, 45 (4) Intervention study; Adults, n = 31 Applied use Stress and recovery The study used Firstbeat metrics as a biofeedback method in a PRECIOUS system to promote behavior change toward healthier lifestyles.
The health impact of nature exposure and green exercise across the life course: a pilot study Wood CJ & Smyth N 2020 International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 30 (2) Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 45 Applied use Stress and recovery; HRV The study used Firstbeat metrics for exploring the associations between childhood and adulthood nature exposure and green exercise on stress and well-being.
Continuous Wellness Tracking with Firstbeat – Usability, User Experience, and Subjective Wellness Impact Partala T, Saar L, Männikkö M, Karhula M & Aschan T 2020 MobiHealth 2019, proceedings, in: O’Hare, G., O’Grady, M., O’Donoghue, J., Henn, P. (eds) Wireless Mobile Communication and Healthcare. Experimental study; working age adults, N = 42 Applied use Stress and recovery Working age adults participated to an intervention study consisting of 3-7 days of Firstbeat measurement and reporting with personal plan for improvement. The participants reported good user experience, and significantly reduced stress and increased self-esteem at follow-up
Continuous Wellness Tracking with Firstbeat – Usability, User Experience, and Subjective Wellness Impact Partala T, Saar L, Männikkö M, Karhula M & Aschan T 2020 MobiHealth 2019, proceedings, in: O’Hare, G., O’Grady, M., O’Donoghue, J., Henn, P. (eds) Wireless Mobile Communication and Healthcare. Experimental study; working age adults, N = 42 Applied use Stress and recovery Working age adults participated to an intervention study consisting of 3-7 days of Firstbeat measurement and reporting with personal plan for improvement. The participants reported good user experience, and significantly reduced stress and increased self-esteem at follow-up
Virtual Reality in Education: Focus on the Role of Emotions and Physiological Reactivity Vesisenaho M, Juntunen M, Häkkinen P, Pöysä-Tarhonen J, Fagerlund J, Miakush I & Parviainen T 2019 Journal of Virtual Worlds Research, 12: 1 Empirical pilot study; Students, n=6 Applied use Stress and recovery The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 together with Firstbeat stress and recovery analysis to study psychophysiological reactions in educational contexts using virtual reality (VR) tools. The researchers also offer a vision for future research and development enabled by emerging methodological advancements (neurophysiological and psychophysiological measurements) to capture learning, performance, and emotions in VR.
Personalized intervention to improve stress andsleep patterns for glycemic control and weightmanagement in obese Emirati patients with type 2diabetes: a randomized controlled clinical trial Mussa BM, Schauman M, Kumar V, Skaria S & Abusnana S 2019 Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy 2019:12, 991–999 Randomized controlled study; Emirati patients with type-2 diabetes, n=51 Applied use Stress and recovery; sleep The study used Firstbeat measurement and feedback as an wellbeing intervention for type-2 diabetics. The findings of the study show that personalized approaches that reduce stress levels, increase recovery levels, and promote healthy sleep habits play an important role in weight management and glycemic control in type-2 diabetics management.
Secondary outcomes of a behavioral sleep intervention: A randomized clinical trial Palesh O, Scheiber C, Kesler S, Gevirtz R, Heckler C, Guido JJ, Janelsins M, Cases MG, Tong B, Miller JM, Chrysson NG & Mustian K 2019 Health Psychology, 38(3), 196–205 Pilot clinical trial; breast cancer patients, N = 71 Applied use HRV Firstbeat was used in a study evaluating the possible effects of Brief Behavioral Therapy for Cancer-Related Insomnia, delivered during chemotherapy visits, on quality of life and HRV in patients with breast cancer.
Secondary outcomes of a behavioral sleep intervention: A randomized clinical trial Palesh O, Scheiber C, Kesler S, Gevirtz R, Heckler C, Guido JJ, Janelsins M, Cases MG, Tong B, Miller JM, Chrysson NG & Mustian K 2019 Health Psychology, 38(3), 196–205 Pilot clinical trial; breast cancer patients, N = 71 Applied use HRV Firstbeat was used in a study evaluating the possible effects of Brief Behavioral Therapy for Cancer-Related Insomnia, delivered during chemotherapy visits, on quality of life and HRV in patients with breast cancer.
Acute Effect of Alcohol Intake on Cardiovascular Autonomic Regulation During the First Hours of Sleep in a Large Real-World Sample of Finnish Employees: Observational Study Pietilä J, Helander E, Korhonen I, Myllymäki T, Kujala U & Lindholm H 2018 JMIR Ment Health 2018 5 (1) Cross-sectional study; Employees, n=4098 Firstbeat database RR-intervals; HRV; stress and recovery Firstbeat’s real-life database was used to assess the impact of alcohol on sleep and HRV, using data from days with and without reported alcohol consumption. Alcohol intake had a dose dependent effect on increased sympathetic regulation, decreased parasympathetic regulation and insufficient recovery. Being physically fit and young provides no protection from alcohol-induced suppression of recovery.
Cardiodynamic Associations With Mental Health And Resilience In Undergraduate Students Knetsch R, Klassen SA & Shoemaker JK 2018 FASEP journal 32: 1, supplement (abstract only) Cross-sectional study; Healthy undergraduate students, n=77 Applied use RR-intervals; HRV The objective of the study was to analyze the relationship between cardiac autonomic control and mental health scores in undergraduate students. HRV data was collected and analyzed with Firstbeat system. The results of the study suggest that higher HRV may indicate greater psychological resilience, and lower anxiety amongst undergraduate students.
Executive Stress Management: Physiological Load of Stress and Recovery in Executives on Workdays. Crespo-Ruiz B, Rivas-Galan S, Fernandez-Vega C, Crespo-Ruiz C & Maicas-Perez L 2018 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15 (12) Explorative study; Senior managers of multinational companies, n=48 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat analytics was used for analyzing stress and recovery balance for work, after work, and night in a workday in executives. The study found that stress generated or maintained outside working hours correlates significantly with a lower quality of recovery during the 24 h workday. The authors concluded it is necessary to prioritize strategies that help improve stress management in executives through the improvement of tools and strategies that promote greater relaxation outside working hours.
Collecting and Using Students’ Digital Well-Being Data inMultidisciplinary Teaching Moilanen H, Äyrämö S, Susanne Jauhiainen S & Kankaanranta M 2018 Education Research International, Article ID 3012079 Explorative study; 13-17 y students, n=198 Applied use Stress and recovery The study used Firstbeat sensors and analytics to examine how students experience the new methods for sensor-based learning inmultidisciplinary teaching in lower and upper secondary education that combine the use of new sensor technology and learningfrom self-produced well-being data.
The Effect of using Noise Cancellation Earplubs in Open-plan Offices on the Work Wellbeing and Work Performance of Software Professionals
 Kari T, Makkonen M, Frank L 2017 The 11th Mediterranean Conference on Information Systems (MCIS), Proceedings, Genoa, Italy, 2017 Experimental study; Adults, n = 28 Applied use Stress and recovery; oxygen consumption; energy expenditure; respiration rate; RR-intervals This explorative study investigated both objectively measured and subjectively perceived effects of adopting noise cancellation earplugs by open-plan office workers in a software company, and used Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment for physiology analytics.
Social rhythms of the heart
 Pantzar M, Ruckenstein M & Mustonen V 2017 Health sociology review 26(1): 22-37 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 35 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat was used to describe and visualize social rhythms of stress and recovery in the everyday life.
Recovery of rescuers from a 24-h shift and its association with aerobic fitness
 Lyytikäinen K, Toivonen L, Hynynen E, Lindholm H & Kyröläinen H 2017 International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health 30(3): 433-444 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 14 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat was used to study changes in autonomic control during a 24-hour work shift and its recovery period among rescuers. Also relation of aerobic fitness on recovery was studied.
Short-term physiological strain and recovery among employees working with agile and lean methods in software and embedded ICT systems
 Tuomivaara S, Lindholm H & Känsälä M 2017 International journal of human-computer interaction Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 36 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method and Bodyguard device were used to assess short-term physiological stress and recovery associated with agile and lean work working methods. Results showed that agile work could even out workload during a working period.
Physiological load and psychological stress during a 24-hour work shift among Finnish firefighters
 Kaikkonen P, Lindholm H & Lusa S 2017 Journal of occupational and environmental medicine 59(1): 41-46 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 25 Applied use Stress and recovery; VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat method was used to describe physiological load and psychological stress of firefighters during a 24-hour work shift
Physical activity, heart rate variability-based stress and recovery, and subjective stress during a 9-month study period
 Föhr T, Tolvanen A, Myllymäki T, Järvelä-Reijonen E, Peuhkuri K, Rantala S, Kolehmainen M, Korpela R, Lappalainen R, Ermes M, Puttonen S, Rusko H & Kujala UM 2017 Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports 27: 612-621 Intervention study; Adults, n = 221 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to objectively measure stress and recovery to study association between physical activity and objective stress and recovery with subjective stress
Effects of using standing versus sitting workstations on the well-being at work of software professionals
 Makkonen M, Silvennoinen M, Nousiainen T, Pesola A & Vesisenaho M 2016 Versendaal et al. (eds), BLED 2016: Proceedings of the 29thBled eConference “Digital economy”: 419-433 Intervention study; Adults, n = 29 Applied use Physical activity; Stress and recovery Firtsbeat method was used to examine potential effects of using standing versus sitting workstations on the well-being at work
Eustress – findings concerning the indication and interpretation of positive stress among entrepreneurs – a case study
 Oksman V, Ermes M & Tikkamäki K 2016 The business and management review 7 (3): 342-347 Case study; Adults, n = 9 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to get information of entrepereneurs‘ physiological reactions. Afterwards positive and negative stress reactions were discriminated based on subjective feelings.
An After-School, high-intensity, interval physical activity programme improves health-related fitness in children
 Martinez S, Rios L, Tamayo I, Almeida L, Lopez-Gomez M & Jara C 2016 Motriz, Rio Claro 22 (4): 359-367 Intervention study; Children, n = 94 Applied use EPOC; Physical activity Firstbeat method was used to assess workload of children aged 7-9 years participating in programmed physical activity in intervention group vs. control group setting
Physical activity, body mass index and heart rate variability-based stress and recovery in 16 275 Finnish employees: a cross-sectional study
 Föhr T, Pietilä J, Helander E, Myllymäki T, Lindholm H, Rusko H & Kujala UM 2016 BMC Public Health 16:701 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 16 275 Firstbeat database Stress and recovery Firstbeat database was used to explore associations between PA level and BMI, and Firstbeat stress and recovery. High PA level was associated with better stress recovery balance whereas higher BMI were associated with poorer results. The study emphazises benefical effects of PA for stress balance.
Sympathetic nervous system synchrony in couple therapy
 Karvonen A, Kykyri V-L, Kaartinen J, Penttonen M & Seikkula J 2016 Journal of Maritla and Family Therapy 42(3): 383-395 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 30 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to assess stress level of therapists and clients in psychotherapy
Soft proposody and embodied attunement in therapeutic interaction: A multimethod case study of a moment of change Kykyri V-L, Karvonen A, Wahlström J, Kaartinen J, Penttonen M & Seikkula J 2016 Journal of Constructivist Psychology 30(3): 211-234 Case study; Adults, n = 3 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to assess stress level of therapist and client in psychotherapy
Subjective stress, objective heart rate variability stress, and recovery on workdays among overweight and psychologically distressed individuals: a cross-sectional study
 Föhr T, Tolvanen A, Myllymäki T, Järvelä-Reijonen E, Rantala S, Korpela R, Peuhkuri K, Kolehmainen M, Puttonen S, Lappalainen R, Rusko H & Kujala U 2015 Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 10(30) Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 221 Validity Stress and recovery Subjective stress was directly associated with objective stress and inversely with objective recovery measured with the Firstbeat method. The authors suggested that objective stress assessment provides an additional aspect to stress evaluation.
Predictors of increase in physical activity during a 6-month follow-up period among overweight and physically inactive healthy young adults
 Mutikainen A, Föhr T, Karhunen L, Kolehmainen M, Kainulainen H, Lappalainen R & Kujala U 2015 Journal of Exercise Science and Fitness 13(2): 63-71 Cohort study; Adults, n = 51 Applied use; Intervention Stress and recovery The study examined how psychological and physiological variables at baseline predicted increase of PA level during a 6-month intervention period in overweight and physically inactive young adults who participated in lifestyle counselling without supervised PA sessions.
Exploratory analysis of associations between individual lifestyles and heart rate variability -based recovery during sleep Pietilä J, Helander E, Myllymäki T, Korhonen I, Jimison H & Misha P 2015 EMBC’15. 37th Annual International Conference ot the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (peer reviewed) Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 6288 Firstbeat database Stress and recovery; Sleep The study explored the importance of different lifestyle factors on Firstbeat’s HRV-based recovery during sleep on a large sample. Alcohol consumption, physical activity, fitness, and sleep duration play significant role in recovery.
The embodied attunement of therapists and a couple within dialogical psychotherapy: An introduction to the realtional mind research project Seikkula J, Karvonen A, Kykyri V-L, Kaartinen J & Penttonen M 2015 Family Process 54: 703-715 Case study; Adults, n = 4 Applied use Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to assess stress level of therapists and clients in psychotherapy
Associations of physical activity, fitness, and body composition with heart rate variability-based indicators of stress and recovery on workdays: a cross-sectional study Teisala T, Mutikainen S, Tolvanen A, Rottensteiner M, Leskinen T, Kaprio J, Kolehmainen M, Rusko H & Kujala UM 2014 Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 9:16 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 81 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery Physical activity, fitness level and body composition were associated with Firstbeat stress and recovery, and stress was associated with self-reported occupational burnout symptoms. The authors concluded that the results support the usability of the Firstbeat method in the evaluation of stress and recovery
The effectiveness and applicability of different lifestyle interventions for enhancing wellbeing: the study design for a randomized controlled trial for persons with metabolic syndrome risk factors and psychological stress Lappalainen R, Sairanen E, Järvelä E, Rantala S, Korpela R, Puttonen S, Kujala UM, Myllymäki T, Peuhkuri K, Mattila E, Kaipainen K, Ahtinen A, Karhunen L, Pihlajamäki J, Järnefelt H, Laitinen J, Kutinlahti E, Saarelma O, Ermes M & Kolehmainen M 2014 BMC Public Health 14:310 Randomized controlled trial Adults, n = 339 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment was used as an objective method for measuring stress and recovery in RCT examining the effectiveness, applicability, and acceptability of different lifestyle interventions with individuals having symptoms of metabolic syndrome and psychological distress
Effects of daily intake of yoghurt enriched with bioactive components on chronic stress responses: a double-blinded randomized cotrolled trial Jaatinen N, Korpela R, Poussa T, Turpeinen A, Mustonen S, Merilahti J & Peuhkuri K 2014 International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition 65(4):507-514 Randomized Controlled Trial; Adults, n = 72 Applied use Stress and recovery The study used Firstbeat method as objective physiological method to assess stress when investigating whether yoghurt enriched with bioactive components have stress reducing effects as compared to normal yoghurt
Feasibility of a personal health technology-based psychological intervention for men with stress and mood problems: randomized controlled pilot trial Lappalainen P, Kaipainen K, Lappalainen R, Hoffrén H, Myllymäki T, Kinnunen M-L, Mattila E, Happonen A, Rusko H & Korhonen I 2013 JMIR Res Protoc 2(1):e1 Cohort study; Adults n = 23 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery Firstbeat lifestyle assessment was used in a well-being intervention utilizing several technology tools and rated as the most useful intervention component by the participants
Heart rate variability measurements in mobile work
 Hyrkkänen U & Vartiainen M 2012 Communications in Computer and Information Science 313:60-67. 4th International Conference on Well-Being in the Information Society. Eriksson-Backa K, Luoma A, Krook E (Eds.) Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 10 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery HRV-based Firstbeat assessment was found to be especially suitable for mobile employees with mobile working mode who have difficulties on controlling their work–life balance
Effects of exercise intensity and duration on nocturnal heart rate variability and sleep quality Myllymäki T, Rusko H, Syväoja H, Juuti T, Kinnunen M-L & Kyröläinen H 2012 European Journal of Applied Physiology 112(3): 801-809 Experimental study; Adults, n = 14 Applied use Stress and recovery; Sleep Firstbeat relaxation was decreased during sleep after demanding exercises [vigorous or long] compared to control sleep without changes in actigraphy or subjective sleep quality
Heart rate variability related to effort at work Uusitalo A, Mets T, Martinmäki K, Mauno S, Kinnunen U & Rusko H 2011 Applied Ergonomics 42(6): 830-838 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 19 Validity Stress and recovery Firstbeat relaxation was negatively associated with effort at work measured with effort-reward imbalance questionnaire [ERI] assessing chronic work stress
Web, mobile and monitoring technologies in self-management of psychophysiological wellbeing: usage and user experiences Kaipainen K, Mattila E, Väätänen A & Lappalainen R 2010 Proceedings of the IADIS International Conference eHealth, Freiburg, Germany, 167-177 Randomized Controlled Trial; Adults, n = 24 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery; Sleep The study explored a concept in which large amount of different technologies were utilized for improving well-being of participants, and where face-to-face intervention meetings and Firstbeat measurements with personal feedback were perceived as the two most important components of the whole concept
Effects of vigorous late-night exercise on sleep quality and cardiac autonomic activity Myllymäki T, Kyröläinen H, Savolainen K, Hokka L, Jakonen R, Juuti T, Martinmäki K, Kaartinen J, Kinnunen M-L & Rusko H 2010 Journal of Sleep Research 20: 146-153 Experimental study; Adults, n = 11 Applied use Stress and recovery; Sleep Firstbeat relaxation was diminished during sleep after intensive late-evening exercise without changes in polysomnographic or movement-based sleep quality
P4Well concept to empower self-management of psychophysiological wellbeing and load recovery
 Happonen A, Mattila E, Kinnunen M-L, Ikonen V, Myllymäki T, Kaipainen K, Rusko H, Lappalainen R & Korhonen I 2009 Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Pervasive Conputing Technologies for Healthcare, London, UK, 1-3 Intervention study; Adults, n = 34 Applied use; Usability Stress and recovery; Sleep The study described a well-being concept that utilized also Firstbeat methods [mobile coach and lifestyle assessment] and which was designed with a driving principle that an individual is the best master of his/her own wellness and targeted to empower his/her for realizing the fact
The association between self-rated affective well-being and physiological indicators of stress and relaxation among cleaning staff Feldt T, Rönkä T, Rusko H, Kinnunen M-L & Kinnunen U 2007 European Congress of Work and Organizational Psychology Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 38 Applied use Stress and recovery Contentment at work indicating subjective experiences of relaxation was linked to low physiological stress and high physiological relaxation measured with Firstbeat method
The associations between physiological recovery indicators during sleep and self-reported work stressors Rönkä T, Rusko H, Feldt T, Kinnunen U, Mauno S, Uusitalo A & Martinmäki K 2006 Nordic Ergonomics Society Congress Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 17 Validity Stress and recovery; Sleep Firstbeat method was used to investigate relaxation time during sleep. Longer relaxation time was associated with less perceived work stressors on the next day.
Stress and relaxation based on heart rate variability: Associations with self-reported mental strain and differences between waking hours and sleep Kinnunen M-L, Rusko H, Feldt T, Kinnunen U, Juuti T, Myllymäki T, Laine K, Hakkarainen P & Louhevaara V 2006 Nordic Ergonomics Society Congress, abstract Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 27 Validity Stress and recovery Firstbeat method is a promising tool for occupational health care sector as it provides general scoring describing stress and relaxation state for work, leisure time, and sleep
Stress and relaxation during sleep and awake time, and their associations with free salivary cortisol after awakening Rusko H, Rönkä T, Uusitalo A, Kinnunen U, Mauno S, Feldt T, Kinnunen M-L, Martinmäki K, Hirvonen A, Hyttinen S & Lindholm H 2006 Nordic Ergonomics Society Congress, abstract Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 17 Validity Stress and recovery; Sleep Significant correlations were found between awakening cortisol variables and variables of stress and relaxation with Firstbeat method during sleep
Associations of psychological self-assessments and heart rate variability in long term measurements at home Antila K, van Gils M, Merilahti J & Korhonen I 2005 European Medical & Biological Engineering Conference Experimental study; Adults, n = 12 Validity Stress and recovery The study revealed significant associations between stress measured with Firstbeat method and self-assessments of stress

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen im Zusammenhang mit:

Oxygen consumption and
maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max)

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Smartwatch-Based Maximum Oxygen Consumption Measurement for Predicting Acute Mountain Sickness: Diagnostic Accuracy Evaluation Study Ye X, Sun M, Yu S, Yang J, Liu Z, Lv H, Wu B, He J, Wang X & Huang L  2023 JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 11, e43340 Experimental study; healthy adults, N = 46 Validation VO2max The study used Huawei smartwatch with Firstbeat’s VO2max estimation included and laboratory tests in low and high altitudes. Both at low and high altitudes, VO2max was slightly overestimated by the smartwatch but had considerable accuracy as the mean absolute percentage error (< 7%) and mean absolute error (<2 ml/kg/min), with a relatively small bias compared with VO2max-CPET. The authors concluded that smartwatch-like device can be a feasible approach for estimating VO2max.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness Estimation Based on Heart Rate and Body Acceleration in Adults With Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Validation Study Rissanen APE, Rottensteiner M, Kujala UM, Kurkela JLO, Wikgren J & Laukkanen JA 2022 JMIR Cardio 6(2):e35796 Experimental study; Adults with cardiovascular risk factors, N = 74 Validation VO2max The study validated the accuracy of Firstbeat’s cardiorespiratory fitness level (CRF) estimation method by the walking fitness test with persons having cardiovascular risk factors. The authors find that the error of the CRF estimate was likely below or at least very close to the clinically significant level of 3.5 mL/kg/min in working-aged adults with cardiovascular risk factors, but not in the relatively small subgroup of patients with type 2 diabetes. They concluded that from a large-scale clinical perspective, the findings suggest that wearable technologies have the potential to estimate individual CRF with acceptable accuracy in clinically relevant populations.
A New Fitness Test of Estimating VO2max in Well-Trained Rowing Athletes Gao WD, Nuuttila O-P, Fang HB, Chen Q & Chen X 2021 Front. Physiol. 12:701541. Experimental study; Athletes, n = 90 Validation VO2max from Firstbeat Sports The study explored the validity of Firstbeat VO2max method and the results indicated that the method provides a considerably accurate estimation of VO2max in well-trained rowers, kayakers, and canoeists. Mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) was very low compared to gold-standard laboratory test being 5.0% for rowing and 4.1% for running.
Validity of Wrist-Worn Activity Trackers for Estimating VO2max and Energy Expenditure
 Passler S, Bohrer J, Blöchinger L & Senner V 2019 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16, 30-37. Experimental study; Healthy subjects, n=24 Validity VO2max; energy expenditure The Firstbeat estimated VO2max MAPE (mean absolute percentage error) was 7.3% in 24 subjects compared to gold-standard when using chest strap for HR monitoring (Garmin 920XT). MAPE was 23.9% for energy expenditure when using optical data (Garmin Vivosmart HR)
Validating the Commercially Available Garmin Fenix 5x Wrist-Worn Optical Sensor for Aerobic Capacity.
Anderson JC, Chisenall T, Tolbert B, Ruffner J, Whitehead PN & Conners RT 2019 International Journal for Innovation Education and Research, 7(1), 147-158. Experimental study; Recretional runners, n=25 Validity VO2max The study explored the validity of the Garmin Fenix5 VO2max estimation (provided by Firstbeat) capabilities against gold-standard laboratory result in recreational runners. The scientists noted that with a mean VO2max difference of only 2.16 ml/kg/min against the gold-standard, the Garmin Fenix5 with Firstbeat analytics is a viable option to provide an accurate, cheaper, and more accessible means of obtaining VO2max in recreational runners.
Activity level and body mass index as predictors of physical workload during working career
 Mänttäri SK, Oksa JAH, Virkkala J & Pietilä JAK 2019 Safety and Health at Work Cross-sectional study; Employees, n=19481 Firstbeat database VO2 The study explored physical workload among a large sample of Finnish employess with Firstbeat methods. The study highlights the importance of regular physical activity and normal weight in protecting the worker from excessive physical (cardiovascular) workload during the whole working career.
Effects of Combined Strength and Endurance Training on Physical Performance and Biomarkers of Healthy Young Women
 Kyröläinen H, Hackney A, Salminen R, Repola J, Häkkinen K & Haimi J 2018 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 32 (6), 1554-1561 Experimental study; Healthy young women, n=17 Applied use HRV, VO2max, training levels Combined endurance and strength training were performed for 9 weeks. Training program enhanced maximal endurance and strength capacity as well as some health biomarkers. Heart rate analyzed with Firstbeat Sports Software to predict VO2max.
Physical activity: Absolute intensity vs. relative-to-fitness level volumes.
 Kujala UM, Pietilä J, Myllymäki T, Mutikainen S, Föhr T, Korhonen I & Helander E 2017 Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 49(3): 474-481 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 23224 Firstbeat database VO2 Large sample of Firstbeat measurements were used to investigate how moderate and vigorous intensity physical activity volumes differ according to absolute intensity recommendation and relative to individual fitness level by sex, age, and body mass index
Validation of the Garmin Forerunner 920XT Fitness Watch VO2peak Test
 Kraft GL & Roberts RA 2017 International Journal of Innovation Education and Research, 5, 62–67. Experimental study; Students, n=16 Validity VO2max The Firstbeat estimated VO2max (in Garmin 920XT using chest strap) was not significantly different from the gold-standard laboratory result and Firstbeat estimated VO2max and laboratory result were highly correlated with a correlation coefficient of 0.84.
Validation of an indirect VO2max test designed for cycling performances. Teikara A-M 2016 Master’s Thesis in Exercise Physiology. Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä. (Abstract in English) Experimental-study; Adult, n = 29 Validity VO2max The study investigated the validity of the Firstbeat VO2max estimation in cycling, and found significant positive correlation with direct VO2max measurement (r=0.84 – 0.86) and MAPE of 7.7 – 8.7%. The study concluded that Firstbeat Fitness Test to be suitable method for VO2max estimation.
Objectively measured physical activity in Finnish employees: a cross-sectional study.
 Mutikainen S, Helander E, Pietilä J, Korhonen I & Kujala U 2014 BMJ Open, Sports and Exercise Medicine 4:12 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 9554 Firstbeat database VO2 Firstbeat method used as a novel validated methodology to study intensity-specific physical activity in a large sample of working age individuals, with detailed associations between intensity-specific physical activity, gender, age, body mass index, and the type of day (workday vs day off)
Estimating oxygen consumption from heart rate and heart rate variability without individual calibration.
 Smolander J, Ajoviita M, Juuti T, Nummela A & Rusko H 2011 Clinical physiology and functional imaging 31(4): 266-271 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 19 Validity VO2 Firstbeat VO2 estimation method is sufficiently accurate for field-use
Validation of Heart Rate Monitor-Based Predictions of Oxygen Uptake and Energy Expenditure.
Montgomery P, Green D, Etxebarria N, Pyne D, Saunders P & Minahan C 2009 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 23(5): 1489-1495 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 17 Validity VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat VO2 estimation method vary ~ 6% in submaximal–maximal running compared to calibrated laboratory gas exchange system, and less if accurate background parameters are used
A new heart rate variability-based method for the estimation of oxygen consumption without individual laboratory calibration: Application example on postal workers.
 Smolander J, Juuti T, Kinnunen M-L, Laine, K, Louhevaara V, Männikkö K & Rusko H 2007 Applied Ergonomics 39(3): 325-331 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 22 Validity; Applied use VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat method was compared to traditional HR-only method to estimate energy expenditure, and found useful for estimating VO2 in the field without laboratory calibration
A Novel Method for Using Heart Rate Variability Data for Estimation of Oxygen Consumption and Energy Expenditure: A Validation.
 Smolander J, Rusko H, Ajoviita M, Juuti T & Nummela A 2007 ECSS congress Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 20 Validity VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat method provides adequate estimates of breathing frequency and on/off-kinetics of HR and VO2, and consequently the oxygen consumption and energy expenditure
On- and Off Dynamics and Respiration Rate Enhance the Accuracy of Heart Rate Based VO2 Estimation. ACSM congress poster.
 Pulkkinen A, Kettunen J, Martinmäki K, Saalasti S & Rusko H 2004 ACSM congress Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 32 Validity VO2; Respiration rate HR-based VO2 estimation can be enhanced using information on On- and Off-dynamics and respiration rate that can be derived reliably using beat-to-beat RR-interval data only

 

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen im Zusammenhang mit:

Energy expenditure

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Energy Balance, Hormonal Status, and Military Performance in Strenuous Winter Training Nykänen T, Ojanen T, Vaara JP, Pihlainen K, Heikkinen R, Kyröläinen H & Fogelholm M 2023 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 20(5), 4086 Experimental study, Male soldiers, N = 68 Applied use Energy Expenditure Firstbeat methods were used to estimate energy expenditure in a study examining the associations between energy intake, expenditure, and balance, hormones and military performance during a winter survival training.
Changes in Body Composition, Energy Metabolites and Electrolytes During Winter Survival Training in Male Soldiers Nykänen T, Ojanen T, Heikkinen R, Fogelholm M & Kyröläinen H 2022 Frontiers in Physiology 13:797268 Experimental study; Male soldiers, N = 68 Applied use Energy Expenditure Firstbeat methods were used to estimate energy expenditure in a study investigating the changes in body composition, energy metabolites and electrolytes during a 10-day winter survival training period.
Pulmonary Capacity, Blood Composition and Metabolism among Coal Mine Workers in High- and Low-Altitude Aboveground and Underground Workplaces Wang Y, Wang H, Chen Y, Xu N, Lee W & Lam W-K 2022 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19 (14), 8295 Experimental study; healthy male coal mine workers from Tibet (altitude 3990–4400m) and Tangshan (altitude 100-120m), N = 71 Applied use HR; HRV: Energy expenditure, TRIMP The study used Firstbeat methods when comparing HRV, cardiorespiratory capacity and metabolism in coal mine workers at different altitudes (high vs. low altitude) and worksites (aboveground vs. underground). High-altitude mining workers can present higher HR, total energy expenditure, metabolism indicators and pulmonary function than those in the low-altitude region, which may be related to the hypoxic environment. Compared to the aboveground worksites, workers in underground mining demonstrated smaller HR, TRIMP and total energy expenditure.
Influence of chronic pain in physical activity of children with cerebral palsy Riquelme I, do Rosário R, Vehmaskoski K, Natunen P & Montoya P 2018 NeuroRehabilitation, 43 (2): 113-123. Cross-sectional study; 4-16 y children, n=52 Applied use Energy expenditure The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard for 24-h HR monitoring and Firstbeat energy expenditure assessment in four groups of children: children with cerebral palsy (CP) with and without chronic pain and typically developing peers with and without chronic pain.
Cardiovascular and Energy Requirements of Parents Watching Their Child Compete: A Pilot Mixed-Methods Investigation Lochbaum M, Prosoli R, Barić R 2017 Pedagogics, psychology, medical-biological problems of physical training and sports, 21(6):279–284 Qualitative study; Adults, n = 2 Applied use Energy Expenditure; Training Effect The study documented physiological reactions of parents watching their son to compete in national junior championship in judo. The father’s data repsented reactions comparable to aerobic activity. The pilot-type study presented unique data on parents and found wearable technology useful in qualitative research.
Novel tools in determining the physiological demands and nutritional practises of Ontario FireRangers during fire deployments Robertson AH, Larivière C, Leduc CR, McGillis Z, Eger T, Godwin A, Larivière M & Dorman SC 2017 PlosOne 12(1):e0169390 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 21 Applied use Energy expenditure; Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was used to assess deployment specific energy demands and physiological responses of firemen. Results support the use of a modern technology for the comprehensive evaluation of physiological variables and
food consumption in free-living occupational settings.
Validating the use of heart rate variability for estimating energy expenditurete variability for estimating energy expenditure Robertson AH, King K, Ritchie SD, Gauthier AP, Laurence M & Dorman SC 2015 International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences 3(2): 19-26 Cohort study; Adult, n = 30 Validity Energy expenditure; VO2max Energy expenditure provided by Firstbeat method was validated against indirect calorimetry. The authors concluded that EE estimates provided by Firstbeat are sufficiently accurate to indicate that the method possesses practical utility and may be used for individual EE monitoring.
Exercise for fitness does not decrease the muscular inactivity time during normal daily life Finni T, Haakana P, Pesola AJ & Pullinen T 2014 Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sport 24: 211-219 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 27 Applied use Energy expenditure Energy expenditure provided by Firstbeat method was used as a reference for daily energy expenditure and compared to muscle activity data [EMG] during active and non-active days
Heart rate variability recordings are a valid non-invasive tool for evaluating soldiers‘ stress Salonen M, Kokko J, Tyysk J & Koivu M 2013 Journal of Defence Studies and Resource Management Cross-sectional study Applied use; Usability Energy expenditure Firstbeat methods were utilized in assessing soldiers’ energy expenditure and cardiovascular autonomic modulation during 72-hour military field training and shown applicable method for assessing soldiers’ stress
Validation of heart rate monitor-based predictions of oxygen uptake and energy expenditure Montgomery P, Green D, Etxebarria N, Pyne D, Saunders P & Minahan C 2009 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 23(5): 1489-1495 Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 17 Validity Energy expenditure; VO2 Firstbeat VO2 estimation method vary ~ 6% in submaximal–maximal running compared to calibrated laboratory gas exchange system, and less if accurate background parameters are used
A novel method for using heart rate variability data for estimation of oxygen consumption and energy expenditure: A validation Smolander J, Rusko H, Ajoviita M, Juuti T & Nummela A 2007 ECSS congress Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 20 Validity Energy expenditure; VO2 Firstbeat method provides adequate estimates of breathing frequency and on/off-kinetics of HR and VO2, and consequently the oxygen consumption and energy expenditure
Energy expenditure can be accurately estimated from HR without individual laboratory calibration Pulkkinen A, Saalasti S & Rusko H 2005 ACSM congress Cross-sectional study: Adult, n = 32 Validity Energy expenditure Firstbeat method provided an accurate and practical method for estimating energy expenditure without individual laboratory calibration making it especially suitable for field use

 

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen im Zusammenhang mit:

Exercise, training and sports coaching

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Extremely Low-Volume Burpee Interval Training Equivalent to 8 Minutes Per Session Improves Vertical Jump Compared with Sprint Interval Training in Real-World Circumstances Perez-Ifran, P, Magallanes, CA, de SCastro, FA, Astorino, TA & Benıtez-Flores, S 2023 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 00(00)/1–11 Case-control study; Healthy adults, N = 43 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used for assessing cardiaovascular responses in a study comparing cardiometabolic and physical adaptations to extremely low-volume HIFT (i.e., including only burpees, BIT) vs. Sprint-interval training in real-world circumstances.
Comparing Sleep in Shared and Individual Rooms During Training Camps in Elite Youth Soccer Players: A Short Report Costa JA, Figueiredo P, Lastella M, Nakamura FY, Guilherme J & Brito J  2023 Journal of athletic training, 58(1), 79-83. Observational case study; adolescent football players, N = 13 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study that analyzes the effect of sleeping in shared versus individual rooms on objective and subjective sleep and on slow-wave-sleep–derived cardiac autonomic activity during an official training camp in elite youth soccer players.
A Comparison of Training and Competition Physical Demands in Professional Male Basketball Players Portes R, Ribas C, García AL & Pérez-Chao EA 2023 International Journal of Basketball Studies, 2(1), 25-33. Experimental study; professional basketball players, N = 12 Applied use Movement load (ML); TRIMP; HR Firstbeat Sports metrics were used in a study identifying the differences in physical load between training and match-play. The study movement load, TRIMP and average HR. Regarding to practical meaningfulness, greater match values were reached for external and internal load variables compared to practices.
Influence of Strength Training on Physical Fitness of Badminton Players Biao Z & Lu X  2023 Revista Brasileira De Medicina Do Esporte 29 Case-study; male badminton players, N=24 Applied use HR; TRIMP; EPOC Firstbeat Sports was used to record training sessions in badminton players. Strength training was found to significantly improve the physical fitness of badminton players, significantly impacting the finishing abilities of players. 
Sprint Interval Training Attenuates Neuromuscular Function and Vagal Reactivity Compared With High-Intensity Functional Training in Real-World Circumstances Benítez-Flores S, Castro FA, Lusa Cadore E & Astorino TA 2023 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 37(5): 1070-1078. Experimental study; moderately active adults, N = 18 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in a study evaluating three low-volume (9 minutes) sessions in a randomized order: sprint interval training, burpee interval training, and vigorous intensity continuous training. Sprint interval training diminishes the sympathovagal reactivation and neuromuscular performance compared with work-matched burpee interval training or vigorous intensity continous training.
A Study on the Impact of Special Aided Training on Badminton Players‘ Personal Fitness Singh V & Ambre S 2023 International Journal of Economic Perspectives, 17(04) Case-control study; Young badminton players, N= 24 Measurement HR; TRIMP; EPOC Firstbeat Sports was used in a study with badminton players. High-load special aided strength training for badminton players can significantly improve the physical fitness of the players.
Effects of a games-based physical education lesson on cognitive function in adolescents Gilbert LM, Dring KJ, Williams RA, Boat R, Sunderland C, Morris JG, Nevill ME & Cooper SB  2023 Frontiers in Psychology 14: 1098861 Experimental study; adolescents, N = 76 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used in a study exploring the acute cognitive responses to physical activity lessons in adolescents. The results emphasized that higher levels of fitness are beneficial for cognitive function in adolescents.
Review of ITF-Approved Player Analysis Technology (PAT) Castillo AV 2023 International Tennis Federation, Coaching & Sport Science Review (89), 27-35 Technology review Review The review presented technical/tactical point of view of measuring devices and apparatus applied to tennis. Firstbeat Sports sensor is used in professional tennis training and is ITF-approved.
Performance changes during repeated military occupational test and its associations to physical performance Ojanen T, Pihlainen K, Vaara JP & Kyröläinen H 2023 Ergonomics Experimental case-study; male soldiers, N = 114 Applied use HR The study investigated performance changes during three runs (1 min recovery) of repeated military simulation task test and its associations with physical performance. Firstbeat Sports was used during the runs for HR monitoring. Physical performance was evaluated with lower body explosive force production, aerobic and anaerobic endurance, and upper body strength endurance tests.
Whole-body photobiomodulation improves post-exercise recovery but does not affect performance or physiological response during maximal anaerobic cycling Forsey JD, Merrigan JJ, Stone JD, Stephenson MD, Ramadan J, Galster SM, Bryner RW & Hagen JA 2023 Lasers in Medical Science 38(1): 111. Cross-sectional study; healthy adults, N = 48 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used for HRV analysis in a study examining the effects of acute whole-body photobiomodulation (wbPBM), applied pre-exercise, on anaerobic cycling (Wingate) performances. Peak power, average power, power decrement, lactate, heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion and HRV were evaluated. Implementing 20 min of wbPBM prior to bouts of maximal cycling did not improve performance or physiological responses. However, wbPBM elicited the ability to work at a higher heart rate throughout testing and seemed to enhance recovery through improved HRV the following morning.
Validity and reproducibility of match-derived ratios of selected external and internal load parameters in soccer players: A simple way to monitor physical fitness? Schimpchen J, Correia PF & Meyer T 2023 Biology of Sport, 40(4): 1039–1046 Experimental study; elite youth soccer players, N = 16 Applied use HR; TRIMP This study used Firstbeat Sports for HR data and Catapult system for movement monitoring and aimed to assess whether match-derived external-to-internal load ratios are a valid and reliable tool to measure physical fitness. A ratio consisting of PlayerLoad and average percentage heart rate reserve demonstrated the most consistent correlations with maximum treadmill speed and the speeds associated with 4 mmol/L of blood lactate and 80% of heart rate reserve.
Training Impulse and Its Impact on Load Management in Collegiate and Professional Soccer Players Gardner C, Navalta JW, Carrier B, Aguilar C & Perdomo Rodriguez J 2023 Technologies, 11, 79 Systematic review Training impulse (TRIMP) is obtained through wearable technology and plays a direct role on the load management of soccer players. This systematic review presents findings of 10 papers regarding usage use of training impulse (TRIMP) and the use of wearable technology to measure TRIMP, including Firstbeat. Higher TRIMP data were noted in starters than reserves throughout the season in matches and slightly lower TRIMP for starters vs. reserves during training. TRIMP data change throughout the season, being higher in preseason phases compared to early-season, mid-season, and late-season phases. These findings help highlight the benefits of TRIMP in managing internal player load in soccer.
Mixed-gender small-sided recreational team handball games in middle-aged and elderly are physiologically more demanding for women than men Carneiro I, Krustrup P, Castagna C, Pereira R & Póvoas S 2023 PLoS ONE 18(6): e0286008 Experimental study; middle-aged or elderly participants of recreational team handball, N = 41 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used for internal load monitoring in a study examining the physical and physiological demands and perceived experience of recreational team handball for middle-aged/elderly men and women, played as same- vs. mixed-gender 6 v 6 game formats.
Effects of Caffeine Supplementation on the Recovery of Professional Soccer Players e Silva TM, Abreu WC, Pimenta E &da Silva SF 2023 Muscles, 2(1): 1-11 Experimental study; professional soccer players, N = 19 Applied use HRV; Quick recovery test The study explored whether caffeine supplementation can help soccer players’ recovery and performance. Professional players were given 210 mg of caffeine or placebo in seven games during the state championship, being offered placebo in three matches and caffeine in four matches, administered 30 min before the game, during the game, and after the game. Blood CK and HRV were measured. Firstbeat Sports Quick Recovery Test was used for tracking recovery. No significant differences were found in CK, HRV, RPR, RPE, or minutes on the field when comparing caffeine supplementation with the placebo.
Using the Rating of Perceived Exertion and Heart Rate to Quantify Training Intensity in Female Soccer Players: Validity and Utility Costa JA, Brito J, Nakamura FY, Figueiredo P & Rebelo A 2022 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(1) pp. 201-206(6) Observational study; Female football players, N = 17 Measurement HR; TRIMP Firstbeat Sports was used in a study evaluating the internal training load during 6 weeks of the competitive period to analyze 1) associations between sessionRPE and TRIMP (b) to verify whether significantly different ranges of percentage of heart rate peak (%HRpeak) would be reached in each discrete RPE category; and (c) to investigate the amount of time spent >90% of HRpeak and associated intraplayer and interplayer variability during soccer technical training sessions with similar contents and duration.
The effects of the PowerMens methodology on the measurement and training of attention in young footballers: A pilot study Tirinnanzi P 2022 NeuroRegulation, 9(1), 2–15. Cross-sectional study; Male footballers, N = 20 Applied use HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in a study examining psychophysiological reaction to the visual attention tasks that cause attentional and cognitive stress among youth football players.
Influence of analysis focus and playing time on internal average and peak physical demands of professional male basketball players during competition PérezChao EA, Lorenzo A, Ribas C, Portes R, Leicht AS & Gómez MA 2022 RICYDE. Revista Internacional de Ciencias del Deporte. 69(18), 155-163 Observational study; Professional baskeball players, N = 22 Measurement HR; Respiration Rate; Ventilation; VO2 Professional basketball players were monitored for 11 games. Firstbeat Sports was used to measure the physiological metrics in order to identify the internal demands during competition including the impact of analysis method (i.e., average vs. peak demands) and to analyze the effects of playing time on the internal demands (average and peak).
Effects of trunk posture on cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems: A pilot study Wang H, Gao X, Shi Y, Wu D, Li C & Wang W 2022 Frontiers in Physiology 13:1009806 Experimental study; Male adults, N = 12 Applied use RR-intervals; HRV Firstbeat Sports system was used to collect ECG and analyze HRV data in a study investigating the effects of trunk posture on the cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems.
Should we train as we compete? Games might be the best scenario to reach the internal peak demands in professional basketball players. Alonso Pérez-Chao E, Ribas C, Gómez MA, Portes R, Jiménez SL, Lorenzo A 2022 Medicina dello Sport, 75(1):45-58 Observational study; elite basketball players, N = 11 Applied use HR; Respiration rate; Ventilation Firstbeat Sports system was used to compare the internal peak demands (PD) of different training sessions
and official matches in professional basketball players.
Acute physiological response to different recreational team handball game formats in over 60-year-old inactive men Ivone Carneiro I, Krustrup P, Castagna C, Pereira R, Coelho E, Póvoas S 2022 PLoS ONE 17(10): e0275483 Experimental study; Over 60-years old men, N = 17 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used to collect HR data in a study describing the physical and physiological demands, activity profile and fun levels of recreational team handball (TH) game formats in over 60-year-old men.
Change of Direction Performance and its Physical Determinants Among Young Basketball Male Players Pérez-Ifrán P, Rial M, Brini S, Calleja-González J, Del Rosso S, Boullosa D & Benítez-Flores S 2022 Journal of Human Kinetics, 85(1), 3922, 23-34 Experimental study; young male basketball players, N = 31 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used to collect HR data in a study aiming to examine the effects of the age group (U-15, U-17 and U-19) on change of direction performance and its specific physical determinants among young basketball male players.
Effect of Transcranial Pulsed Current Stimulation on Fatigue Delay after Medium-Intensity Training Wu Q, Fang G, Zhao J & Liu J 2022 International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health, 19(12), 7042 Randomized double-blind experiment; track and field athletes in Nantong University, N = 90 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in study investigating the effect of transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) on fatigue delay after medium-intensity training.
Effect of two-weeks of school-based sprint training on physical fitness, risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases and cognitive function in adolescent girls: A randomized controlled pilot trial Williams RA, Dring KJ, Morris JG, Sunderland C, Nevill ME & Cooper SB 2022 Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 4 Randomized control study; adolescent girls, N = 16 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used in a study exploring the effects, and the perceived enjoyment, of a 2-week, school-based sprint-interval training intervention on physical fitness, risk factors related to cardiometabolic disease, and cognitive function, in adolescent girls.
Burpee Interval Training Is Associated With a More Favorable Affective Valence and Psychological Response Than Traditional High Intensity Exercise Mayr Ojeda, E, Castro, F A de S, Reich, M, Astorino, T A, & Benítez-Flores, S 2022 Perceptual and Motor Skills, 129(3), 767–786. Experimental study; moderately active young adults, N = 18 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in a study comparing acute psychological responses to different exercise protocols with identical durations. Eighteen moderately active young adults
A Validation Study of Heart Rate Variability Index in Monitoring Basketball Training Load Jin N, Tian J, Li Y & Mi J 2022 Frontiers in Physiology, Vol. 13 Experimental study; elite male college basketball athletes, N = 10 Applied use HR; HRV; TRIMP The study used Firstbeat Sports to investigate whether HRV index (TLHRV) during five ball-drills could be used to quantify training load in basketball players. TLHRV was significantly correlated with TRIMP and RPE and with training intensity but not with volume. TLHRV differentiated basketball drills of equal volume and varying intensity. The authors concluded that TLHRV may serve as an objective and rational measure to monitor training load in basketball players.
Low-Intensity Resistance Exercise Combined With Blood Flow Restriction is More Conducive to Regulate Blood Pressure and Autonomic Nervous System in Hypertension Patients—Compared With High-Intensity and Low-Intensity Resistance Exercise Zhao Y, Zheng Y, Ma X, Qiang L, Lin A & Zhou M 2022 Frontiers in Physiology, 13:833809. Experimental study; hypertension patients, N = 45 Applied use HR; HR recovery; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in a study exploring a suitable resistance training method for hypertension patients to regulate blood pressure (BP) and autonomic nervous system function. High-intensity resistance exercise, low-intensity resistance exercise, and low-intensity resistance exercise combined with blood flow restriction was tested.
Experimental study of transcranial pulsed current stimulation on relieving athlete’s mental fatigue Shen Y, Liu J, Zhang X, Wu Q & Lou H 2022 Frontiers in Psychology 13:957582 Experimental study; college athletes, N = 60 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used in study investigating the effect of independently developed transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) on alleviating athlete’s mental fatigue.
Monitoring Heart Rate Variability and Perceived Well-Being in Brazilian Elite Beach Volleyball Players: A Single-Tournament Pilot Study Nakamura FY, Torres VBC, da Silva LS, Gantois P, Andrade AD; Ribeiro ALB, Brasileiro-Santos MS & Batista GR 2022 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 36(6):p 1708-1714 Experimental study; youth and senior beach volley players, N = 17 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat monitors were used in a study investigating the changes in heart rate variability (HRV) and perceptual well-being status after a beach volleyball (BV) tournament day in high-level U17 and senior players.
Effects of a taped filter mask on peak power, perceived breathlessness, heart rate, blood lactate and oxygen saturation during a graded exercise test in young healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial Ng HL, Trefz J, Schönfelder M & Wackerhage H 2022 BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation 14, 19 Experimental study; trained participants, N = 8 Applied use HR Firstbeat SPORTS was used in a study that investigated the impact of wearing a face mask during a graded exercise test. Face masks are effective to reduce the transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 and other pathogens. When compared to wearing no mask, maximal workload was significantly reduced with a taped filter face mask and with a surgical mask. Subjects perceive the sensation of „severe breathlessness“ at a lower workload when wearing masks. HR and blood lactate concentration were not significantly different in-between no mask, surgical mask and taped mask at any workload.
Physiological, Perceptual, and Performance Responses to the 2-Week Block of High- versus Low-Intensity Endurance Training Nuuttila OP, Nummela A, Kyröläinen H, Laukkanen J & Häkkinen K 2022 Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 54(5): 851-860 Experimental study; recreationally endurance-trained runners, N = 30 Applied use RR-intervals; HR; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 together with Firstbeat Sports was used for nocturnal measurements in a study examining the effects 2-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and low intensity training (LIT) blocks. HIIT and LIT blocks increased endurance performance in a short period. Although both protocols seemed to be tolerable for recreational athletes, a HIIT block may induce some negative responses such as increased muscle soreness and decreased parasympathetic activity.
Shedding Light on the Effects of Orienteering Exercise on Spatial Memory Performance in College Students of Different Genders: An fNIRS Study Bao S, Liu J & Liu Y 2022 Brain Sciences, 12(7), 852 Experimental study; college students, N = 48 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study investigating the intervention effect of orienteering exercises on the spatial memory ability of college students of different genders and its underlying mechanism. The study found that orienteering exercises improved the spatial memory ability of college students, more significantly in male students.
Effects of pre-exercise H2 inhalation on physical fatigue and related prefrontal cortex activation during and after high-intensity exercise Hong Y, Dong G, Li Q, Wang V, Liu M, Jiang G, Bao D & Zhou J 2022 Frontiers in Physiology, 13:988028 Experimental study; young men, N = 24 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports chest belt was used in a examined the effects of pre-exercise H2 gas inhalation on physical fatigue and prefrontal cortex activation during and after high-intensity cycling exercise.
Situational information and the design of representative learning tasks: What impact does a scoreboard have on expert taekwondo fighters‘ behaviour and affective-cognitive responses? Maloney MA, Renshaw I, Greenwood D & Farrow D 2022 Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 61, 102175 Experimental study; taekwondo fighters, N = 9 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR monitoring in a study about the impact of presence of situational information by manipulating the presence of a scoreboard featuring time and score situational information as expert taekwondo athletes fought in practice.
Effects of Combined Strength and Endurance Training on Body Composition, Physical Fitness, and Serum Hormones During a 6-Month Crisis Management Operation Pihlainen K, Kyröläinen H, Santtila M, Ojanen T, Raitanen J & Häkkinen K 2022 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(9): 2361–2370 Experimental study; soldiers, N = 78 Applied use HR Suunto Memory belt and Firstbeat analysis was used for HR data processing in a study examining the impact of training interventions on soldier readiness during an international military operation. The study investigated the effects of combined strength and endurance training on body composition, physical performance, and hormonal status during a 6-month international military deployment consisting of typical peacekeeping tasks, e.g., patrolling, observation, and on-base duties.
Effect of cold ambient temperature on heat flux, skin temperature, and thermal sensation at different body parts in elite biathletes Blokker T, Bucher E, Steiner T & Wehrlin JP 2022 Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, Vol 4. Experimental study; Swiss national level biathletes, N = 13 Applied use HR Firstbeat sensors were used for HR data collection in a study assessing the thermal response and sensation measured at different body parts during exercise in a cold environment in biathletes. The study found that biathletes skiing in a race suit at moderate intensity experience significant heat loss and a large drop in skin temperature, particularly at the quadriceps muscle. Body-part dependent differences in the thermal response should be considered for clothing strategy and for race suit design.
Study on the Effect of Different Transcranial Pulse Current Stimulation Intervention Programs for Eliminating Physical Fatigue Wu Q, Fang G, Zhao J & Liu J 2022 Applied Sciences, 12(11), 5609 Experimental study; healthy college athletes, N = 40 Applied use HR; HRV Firstbeat Sports was used in a study exploring the effect of different transcranial pulsed current stimulation intervention programs on the elimination of physical fatigue.
Impact of tapering and proactive recovery on young elite rugby union players’ repeated high intensity effort ability Vachon A, Berryman N, Mujika I, Paquet JB, Sauvet F & Bosquet L 2022 Biology of Sport, 39(3): 735–743 Intervention study; elite rugby union players, N = 18 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used in a study assessing the effects of a taper combined with proactive recovery on the repeated high intensity effort of elite rugby union players, and the possible interaction of pre-taper fatigue and sleep. Poor sleep quality before the intensive training period appeared to predispose the players to developing functional overreaching.
Does Physical Activity Improve Cognition and Academic Performance in Children? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials „Ferreira Vorkapic C, Alves H, Ajaujo L, Joaquim Borba-Pinheiro C,
Coelho R, Fonseca E, Oliveira A & Dantas EHM „		 2021 Neuropsychobiology Review of scientific literature Review The study reviewed and analyzed the studies on acute and chronic physical activity interventions from RCTs on cognitive functions and academic performance of children and adolescents including studies using Firstbeat.
Effects of Different Training Interventions on Heart Rate Variability and Cardiovascular Health and Risk Factors in Young and Middle-Aged Adults: A Systematic Review Grässler B, Thielmann B, Böckelmann I & Hökelmann A 2021 Frontiers in Physiology, 12:657274 Review of scientific literature Review HRV This systematic review provided an overview of the effects of different physical training modalities on resting HRV and cardiovascular health and risk factors (i.e., baroreflex sensitivity, body fat, body mass, body mass index, blood pressure, heart rate recovery, VO2 max, and VO2 peak) in young and middle-aged healthy adults. Findings of training studies utilizing Firstbeat were presented.
Training-Induced Acute Neuromuscular Responses to Military Specific Test during a Six-Month Military Operation Pihlainen K, Pesola AJ, Helén J, Häkkinen K, Finni T, Ojanen T, Vaara JP, Santtila M, Raitanen J & Kyröläinen H 2021 International Journal of Environtal Research and Public Health, 18 (1), 215 Longitudinal follow-up design; male soldiers, n = 49 Applied use HR The study assessed acute training-induced changes in neuromuscular and metabolic responses during a high-intensity military simulation test (MST), performed in the beginning and at the end of a six-month crisis-management operation. Firstbeat was used for HR data analysis.
Monitoring Training and Recovery during a Period of Increased Intensity or Volume in Recreational Endurance Athletes Nuuttila O-P, Nummela A, Häkkinen K, Seipäjärvi S & Kyröläinen H 2021 International Journal of Environtal Research and Public Health, 18 (5), 2401 Intervention study; recreational subjects, n = 30 Applied use HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for nocturnal HRV monitoring a study examining the effects of progressively increased training intensity or volume on recovery and performance metrics of recreationally trained persons.
Official matches and training sessions: physiological demands of elite junior badminton players Sales KCG, Santos MAP, Nakamura F, Silvino V, Sena AFDC, Ribeiro SLG, Rodrigues JFC jr, Cabido CET & Mendes TT 2021 Motriz: Revista de Educação Física. 27 Experimental and observational study; elite junior badminton athletes, n = 12 Applied use HR; HR zones The study used Firstbeat Sports for evaluating the intensity of training and official badminton matches (international championship) in junior elite players.
Measuring Physical Demands in Basketball: An Explorative Systematic Review of Practices Russel JL, McLean BD, Impellizzeri FM, Strack DS & Coutts AJ 2021 Sports Medicine 51, 81–112  Review of scientific literature Validity The systematic review evaluated the methods and technologies used for monitoring physical demands in competitive basketball athletes including Firstbeat.
Monitoring Individual Sleep and Nocturnal Heart Rate Variability Indices: The Impact of Training and Match Schedule and Load in High-Level Female Soccer Players Costa JA, Figueiredo P, Nakamura FY, Rebelo A & Brito J 2021 Frontiers of Physiology, 12: 678462. Observational study; female soccer players, n = 34 Applied use HR; RR-intervals HR data during training and matches were recorded and analyzed with Firstbeat Sports, and sleep HRV data with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 in a study exploring associations of training load with sleep and nocturnal HRV indices in high-level female soccer players throughout a 2-week competitive period.
Effects of high-carbohydrate versus mixed-macronutrient meals on female soccer physiology and performance Wynne JL, Ehlert AM & Wilson PB 2021 „European Journal of Appl. Physiology;
121, 1125-1134″		 Randomized crossover study; Female soccer players, n = 15 Measurement HR Firstbeat HR monitors were used in a study evaluating the physiological and perceptual effects of pre-competition mixed-macronutrient and high-carbohydrate meals in collegiate female soccer players.
Physiological and Psychological Responses to Three Distinct Exercise Training Regimens Performed in an Outdoor Setting: Acute and Delayed Response Benítez-Flores S, Magallanes CA, Alberton CL & Astorino TA 2021 Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 6 (2): 44 Randomized crossover design; trained adults, n = 10 Applied use HR; HRV The study used Firstbeat Sports system for analyzing different HR metrics and HRV for comprehensive comparison of acute responses to three time-matched exercise regimens.
Heart Rate Variability and Physical Demands of In-Season Youth Elite Soccer Players Williams RA, Cooper S, Dring KJ, Hatch L, Morris JG, Sunderland C & Nevill ME 2021 „Journal of Sport Sciences, Volume 39,
2021, Issue 10″		 Randomized controlled trial; adolescents, n = 36 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports system was used for HR measurement when studying the metabolic responses to an acute bout of football and the overall and moderating role of physical fitness on these responses.
Effect of acute football activity and physical fitness on glycaemic and insulinaemic responses in adolescents Sánchez-Sánchez J, Botella J, Hernández JLF, León M, Paredes-Hernández V, Colino E, Gallardo L & García-Unanue J 2021 Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health Cross-sectional study; Youth soccer players; n = 17 Applied use RR-intervals; HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports software was used for studying the associations between external load and nocturnal HRV.
Heart Rate Variability and Physical Demands of In-Season Youth Elite Soccer Players Sánchez-Sánchez J, Botella J, Hernández JLF, León M, Paredes-Hernández V, Colino E, Gallardo L & García-Unanue J 2021 Internationa Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4) Cross-sectional study; Youth soccer players; N = 17 Applied use RR-intervals; HRV; stress and recovery Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and Firstbeat Sports software was used for studying the associations between external load and nocturnal HRV.
Comparison of Heart Rate Monitoring Accuracy between Chest Strap and Vest during Physical Training and Implications on Training Decisions Parak J, Salonen M, Myllymäki T & Korhonen I 2021 Sensors, 21(24), 8411 Experimental study; healthy subjects, N = 25 Validation RR-intervals; HR; EPOC, VO2; Energy expenditure; TRIMP The study evaluated the impact of the sensor mechanical design on the accuracy of the HR, HRV and estimation of EPOC, EE, and TRIMP comparing a chest strap and a HR vest with the same ECG sensor during supervised exercise protocol. A 3-lead clinical Holter ECG was used as a reference. The mean absolute percentage error for HR was 0.76% vs. 3.32%, for EE 1.70% vs. 6.73% , for TRIMP 0.38% vs. 8.99%, and for EPOC 3.90% vs. 54.15% when comparing chest strap and vest, respectively. Results suggest superior accuracy of chest strap over vest for HR and physiological metrics monitoring during sports.
Development and Implementation of ‘Just Right’ Physical Behavior in Industrial Work Based on the Goldilocks Work Principle—A Feasibility Study Lerche AF & Mathiassen SE & Rasmussen CL & Straker L & Søgaard K & Holtermann A 2021 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(9), 4707 Intervention study; workers from a brewery in Denmark, N = 20 Applied use HR The Goldilocks Work Principle expresses that productive work should be redesigned to comprise physical behaviors of different intensities in a composition promoting workers’ health and fitness. This study assessed the feasibility of redesigning work with 16-week intervention aimed to support the workers in modifying their work. Firstbeat’s wellness tools were used for measuring changes. To some extent, physical behavior and intensity changed as intended during ‘intervention’ workdays compared to ‘control’ workdays. The results suggest that it is feasible to develop and implement modified work based on the Goldilocks Work Principle among industrial workers. However, the study also identified several barriers to the implementation of such modifications.
The Effects of an Intensive 2-wk Resistance Training Period on Strength Performance and Nocturnal Heart Rate Variability Kaikkonen P, Hynynen E, Hautala A & Ahtiainen JP 2020 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 15 (10): 1448–1454 Intervention; Young men, n = 13 Firstbeat Bodyguard was used to collect nocturnal HRV in a study exploring the effects of an intensive 2-wk resistance training period on the nocturnal HRV and strength performance of healthy participants.
Effect of football activity and physical fitness on information processing, inhibitory control and working memory in adolescents
 Williams RA, Cooper SB, Dring KJ et al. 2020 BMC Public Health 20, 1398 Cross-over design; Adolescents, n = 36 Applied use Fitness level with multi-stage fitness test Firstbeat Team Sport System was used for the assessment of physical fitness in a study exploring
Test-retest reliability of TRIMP in collegiate ice hockey players
 Ulmer JG, Tomkinson GR, Short S, Short M & Fitzgerald JS 2019 Biology of Sport 36(2): 191–194. Experimental study; Collegiate male ice-hockey players, n=12 Applied use HR; TRIMP The study explored the utility of the heart rate derived variable TRaining IMPulse (TRIMP) for assessing internal training load in ice hockey players and used Firstbeat Sports for monitoring HR and analyzing TRIMP.
Effects of Late-Night Training on “Slow-Wave Sleep Episode” and Hour-by-Hour Derived Nocturnal Cardiac Autonomic Activity in Female Soccer Players
 Costa JA, Brito J, Nakamura FY, Oliveira EM & Rebelo AN 2018 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, ahead of print Cross-sectional study; Athletes, n = 11 Applied use Training Load, RR-intervals The study used Firstbeat Sports to measure training load and nocturnal Bodyguard 2 measurements to assess recovery in Portuguese female soccer players. The study found that late-night soccer training did not affect HRV during estimated SWS or hour-by-hour, but it elevated heart rate during the first three sleeping hours.
Evaluation of occupational physical load during 6-month international crisis management operation
 Pihlainen K, Santtila M, Vasankari T, Häkkinen K & Kyröläinen H 2018 International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 31 (2), 185-197. Experimental study; Soldiers, n=79 Applied use HR The aim of this study was to assess changes in soldiers‘ body composition, stress biomarkers, physical activity and heart rate responses during a 6-months international crisis management operation. Firstbeat PRO was used to examine individual’s absolute and mean HR for 24-h period. During a calm nature of the operations subjects had no physiological signs of overload.
Effects of HRV-Guided vs. Predetermined Effects of Late-Night Training on “Slow-Wave Sleep Episode” and Hour-by-Hour Derived Nocturnal Cardiac Autonomic Activity in Female Soccer Players
 Costa JA, Brito J, Nakamura FY, Oliveira EM & Rebelo AN 2018 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance Experimental study; Portuguese female football players, n=11 Applied use RR-intervals; TRIMP The study explored the effects of late-night soccer training on nocturnal HRV and used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 to measure sleep-time HRV and Firstbeat Sports to track training load with TRIMP metric. The study found that late-night soccer training did not seem to affect nocturnal HRV indices when analyzed for estimated slow-wave sleep episode or by hour-by-hour approach in highly-trained athletes.
„Behavior of external and internal loads in
the preparation of professional soccer
players in a competitive microcycle of the
Brazilian soccer“
 Pereira J & Lopes M 2017 World Conference on Science and Soccer, Rennes, 31.5.- 2.6.2017 Cross-sectional study; Athletes, n = 21 Applied use Training Effect Firstbeat Sports was used to measure physical load during a one week preparation microcycle before an important match for the team. Training load was lower during practices than in the match.
„Physical and Physiological Demands of Recreational Team Handball for Adult Untrained Men“
 Póvoas SCA, Castagna C, Resende C, Coelho EF, Silva P, Santos R, Seabra A, Tamames J, Lopes M, Randers MB & Krustrup P 2017 BioMed Research International, Vol. 2017, Article ID 6204603 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 15 Applied use RR-intervals The describtive study examined acute physical and physiological demands of recreational team handball using Firstbeat Sports system. Recreational team handball was found to have a positive effect on aerobic, anaerobic, and musculoskeletal fitness in adult individuals.
„Maximal heart rate differs between laboratory and field conditions among female athletes“
 Coutinho C, Watson A, Brickson S & Sanfilippo J 2017 Journal of Human Sport and Exercise, 12(2), 386-395. Experimental study; Athletes, n = 21 Applied use RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports was used to measure heart rates in a study which explored if maximal heart rate varies between laboratory testing,
field testing, training, competitive matches and an age-predicted equation among female collegiate soccer players.
Effects of HRV-Guided vs. Predetermined Block Training on Performance, HRV and Serum Hormones
 Nuuttila O-P, Nikander A, Polomoshnov D, Laukkanen JA & Häkkinen K 2017 International Journal of Sports Medicine Intervention study; Adults, n = 24 Applied use; validity Stress and recovery; HRV Firstbeat HRV-based Quick Recovery Test was used to guide endurance block training, and it was compared to predetermined training. The study found that individually HRV-guided training may provide greater endurance and neuromuscular adaptations and reduce the risk of overtraining.
High-intensity endurance training increases nocturnal heart rate variability in sedentary participants
 Nummela A, Hynynen E, Kaikkonen P & Rusko H 2016 Biology of sport 33(1): 7-13 Intervention study; Adults, n = 15 IApplied use HRV Firstbeat method was used during night sleep to investigate the potential of HRV indices for evaluating the training load and training response of sedentary participants in high-intensity endurance training. Nocturnal HFP was found to be a useful method to monitor individual responses to endurance training.
Predicting and monitoring individual endurance training adaptation and individualizing training prescription: With endurance performance, cardiac autonomic regulation and neuromuscular performance
 Vesterinen V 2016 Academic Dissertation. Studies in sport, physical education and health 248, University of Jyväskylä, Finland Longitudinal, experimental studies; Recretional athletes, n = 68 Academic dissertation HRV Firstbeat method was used to study usability of cardiac autonomic regulation in predicting and monitoring training adaptations, and individualizing training prescription. Findings suggest that resting HRV shows great potential as a practical tool for monitoring adaptations and individualizing training.
Validity and Reliability of a Submaximal Intermittent Running Test in Elite Australian Football Players Veugelers KR, Naughton GA, Duncan CS, Burgess DJ & Graham SR 2016 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 30(12):p 3347-3353 Experimental study; elite Australian Rules Football players, N = 25 Applied use HR; HR recovery Firstbeat tools were used for HR monitoring in a study that determined the validity and reliability of a submaximal intermittent running (SIR) test in elite Australian rules football players. The SIR test results were compared to the maximal yo-yo intermittent recovery 2 tests. Large inverse correlations were reported between 2-, 3-, and 4-minute HR during the SIR test and YYIR2 test distance. HRR after 2 and 3 minutes of the SIR test was moderately correlated to YYIR2 distance. The findings support the use of the SIR test as a regular and non-fatiguing indicator of intermittent running capacity.
Nocturnal heart rate and heart rate variability based training load monitoring, a case study of an elite junior XC Skier during a Glacier Training Camp Mikkola J, Hynynen E & Nummela A 2012 2nd international Congress on Science and Nordic Skiing, 28-31 May, Vuokatti, Finland Case study; Junior athlete, n = 1 Applied use Stress and recovery; HRV Firstbeat method seems to be practical tool for assessing training induced stress over an athlete although recovery as well as HR and HRV responses are individual
Heart rate variability in prediction of individual adaptation to endurance training in recreational endurance runners Vesterinen V, Häkkinen K, Hynynen E, Mikkola J, Hokka L & Nummela A 2010 Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports 23(2): 171-180 Longitudinal intervention study; Athletes, n = 28 Applied use HRV Firstbeat method was used to analyze nocturnal HRV which may serve as a useful method to assess individual adaptation to prolonged endurance training
A three year follow-up study of endurance performance and nocturnal HRV of an international level race-walker Hynynen E & Nummela A 2010 EA innovation awards Case study; Athletes, n = 1 Applied use Stress and recovery Regular nocturnal HRV analysis with Firstbeat method was utilized for international level race-walker’s training and it was found useful for assessing training and racing induced stress and an individual variation in recovery
Physical loading, stress and recovery in a youth soccer tournament Luhtanen P, Nummela A & Lipponen K 2007 VIth congress on science in football Cohort study; Junior athletes, n = 10 Applied use EPOC; Stress and recovery Firstbeat method was applied for soccer in assessing load of matches and training [by EPOC] and recovery during sleep [recovery index]
Heart rate and match analysis of Finnish junior football players Vänttinen T, Blomqvist M, Lehto H & Häkkinen K 2007 VIth congress on science in football Cross-sectional study; Junior athletes, n = 43 Applied use EPOC; VO2; Energy expenditure Match analysis and physiological analysis [HR and EPOC by Firstbeat method] was conducted for junior soccer players in different age groups revealing higher relative playing intensity in older age groups during a match
An evaluation of physical loading, recovery and stress in youth soccer Häyrinen M, Luhtanen P, Juntunen J, Hynynen E, Vänttinen T, Lipponen K & Heliskoski J 2007 Science for success II congress Cross-sectional study; Junior athletes, n = 18 Applied use EPOC; Stress and recovery The study showed that Firstbeat methods work well in team sports and the results revealed that the playing position and characteristics of the match affect significantly to EPOC values, which typically peaked during the first half of the match
Practical experiences from measuring exercise intensity and recovery state with heart rate monitoring in team sport Vänttinen t, Nummela A & Rupf R 2007 International Symposium Computer Science in Sport Cohort study; Athletes, n = 24 Applied use EPOC; Stress and recovery Firstbeat methods were applied into team sports [soccer] and found applicable for following-up of training, quantifying the impact of matches, optimizing preparation, and for teaching players to recognize their overall stress in life
A reliable and accurate measuring instrument for performance diagnostics and training control Wünch A, Schurack O & Schmidt W 2006 University of Bayreuth, report Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 17 Validity VO2; Ventilation, Respiration rate, EPOC Firstbeat method utilized in Suunto t6 wrist computer is appropriate for performance diagnostics and training control, and might highly contribute to successful training
Suunto t6 – ein zuverlässiges und genaues Messgerät zur Leistungsdiagnostik und Trainingssteuerung? Untersuchung zur Validität und Realibilität anhand von Labortests auf dem Fahrradergometer und Feldtests Wünch A & Schurack O 2006 University of Bayreuth, report Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 17 Validity VO2; Ventilation, Respiration rate, EPOC Firstbeat method utilized in Suunto t6 wrist computer was shown to be valid and reliable in laboratory and field tests for measuring physiological parameters
Examination of Suunto t6 regarding Validity and Reliability Wünch A, Schurack O & Romann M 2005 University of Bayreuth, report Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 17 Validity VO2; Ventilation, Respiration rate, EPOC Firstbeat method utilized in Suunto t6 wrist computer provides reliable values during a maximum stress test until exhaustion for ventilation, respiration rate, oxygen consumption and energy expenditure
Influence of increased duration or intensity on training load as evaluated by EPOC and TRIMPS Rusko H 2004 ACSM congress Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 8 Validity EPOC EPOC can give dynamic information on the training load and allows calculation of time needed for recovery i.e. decrease of EPOC to resting level
Pre-prediction of EPOC: A tool for monitoring fatigue accumulation during exercise? Rusko H, Pulkkinen A, Saalasti S, Hynynen E & Kettunen J 2003 ACSM congress Meta-analysis of 48 peer-reviewed articles; Adult, n = 32 in validation dataset Validity EPOC EPOC can be pre-predicted by using only heartbeat data during exercise

 

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen mit/über:

Firstbeat Bodyguard (2) device for tracking HRV

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Comparing the stress response using heart rate variability during real and simulated crises: a pilot study Peabody J, Ziesmann, MT & Gillman LM 2023 Advances in Health Science Education Case-study; physicians, N = 19 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to collect data in a study exploring whether a simulation of non-real life mediacal emergencies can create the same psychophysiological response as actual medical emergencies.
Cardiac autonomic and cortisol stress responses to real operations in surgeons: Relationship with individual psychobiological characteristics and experience Carnevali L, Bignami E, Gambetta S, Barbetti M, Procopio M, Freyrie A, Carbognani, P , Ampollani L & Sgoifo A 2023 BioPsychoSocial medicine, 17(1), 5. Case-study; Surgeons, N = 16 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study exploring the effects of real operations on the activity of stress response systems (i.e., cardiac autonomic function and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis) during and in the aftermath of surgery.
Physical Work Demands of Maintenance Workers on Onshore Petroleum Facilities in Norway: An Observational Study Utilizing Wearable Sensor Technology Tjøsvoll SO, Steiro Fimland M, Gonzalez V, Seeberg TM, Holtermann A, Færevik H & Wiggen Ø 2023 Annals of Work Exposures and Health 67, (6), 706-719. Case-study; Petroleum industry workers, N = 46 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study assessing the physical work demands of mechanics and process technicians on onshore petroleum facilities in Norway using body-worn accelerometers and heart rate monitors.
The long-term impact of early adverse experience on adaptive functioning: a pilot study integrating measures of mental status, nonverbal communication, and heart rate variability Bussone S, Pesca C, Casetti V, Croce Nanni R, Ottaviani C, Troisi A & Carola V 2023 European Journal of Psychotraumatology 14, (1): 2181766. Case-study; University students, N = 55 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used to record data in an exploratory study analyzing the long-term impact of childhood maltreatment by assessing psychological symptoms, social and behavioural communication, and physiological regulation.
A troubled heart: Mood disorder history longitudinally predicts faster cardiopulmonary aging in breast cancer survivorship Madison AA, Filatov M, Andridge R, Haas G, Povoski SP, Agnese DM, Lustberg M, Reinbolt RE, Williams NO, Malerkey WB & Kiecolt-Glaser JK 2023 PloS one, 18(3), e0283849. Cross-sectional study; Breast cancer survivors, N = 80 Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used to collect HR data during exercise stress tests in a study of cardiorespiratory fitness profiles in breast cancer survivors.
No effects on heart rate variability in depression after treatment with dorsomedial prefrontal intermittent theta burst stimulation Bengtsson J, Olsson E, Persson J & Bodén R 2023 Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences 128(1), e8949-9. Randomized Cross-Sectional Study, patiens with depressive episode, N = 49 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study investigating whether treatment of a depressive episode with intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) over the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC) had effects HRV.
Biobehavioral mechanisms underlying testosterone and mood relationships in peripubertal female adolescents Elizabeth Andersen E, Prim J, Campbell A, Schiller C, Baresich K & Girdler S 2023 Development and Psychopathology, 1-15 Experimental study; peripubertal female adolescents (ages 11–14), N = 43 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used when studying the biobehavioral mechanisms underlying hormone change and mood relationships during the pubertal transition. The subjects collected 8-weekly salivary hormone (estrone, testosterone) samples and mood assessments to evaluate hormone-mood relationships, followed by a biobehavioral testing session with psychosocial stress and EEG.
Capturing cognitive load management during authentic virtual reality flight training with behavioural and physiological indicators Lämsä J, Mannonen J, Tuhkala A, Heilala V, Helovuo A, Tynkkynen I, Lampi E, Sipiläinen K, Kärkkäinen T, & Hämäläinen R, 2023 Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 1–11. Experimental study; expert and novice pilots, N = 14 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study exploring cognitive load management performance through behavioural indicators in authentic virtual reality flight training and to explore if and to what extent physiological data was associated with cognitive load management performance.
The effects of expected and unexpected stress on inappropriate aggression in simulated police interventions Farkas I, Vegh J, Ivaskevics K, Erika Malet Szabo E & Haller J 2023 Heliyon 9, e17871 Experimental study; police cadets, N = 82 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study exploring stress and aggression. The gradually developing anticipatory stress was associated with low, whereas the abrupt increase in HRs was associated with high aggression. The study suggest that the anticipation of a stressful event improves behavioral control whereas an unexpected stress strongly promotes aggression.
Quantitative and qualitative workload assessment in steep terrain forest operations: fostering a safer work environment through yarder automation Ottaviani Aalmo G, Spinelli R, Magagnotti N & Visser R 2023 Ergonomics 66 (6), 717–729 Experimental study; forest operators, N = 5 Measurement RR-intervals; HR; HRV The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 for HR and HRV recordings when studying if the automation of carriage travel in a commercial yarding operation has any effect on the mental work-load of workers engaged with yarder operation and other connected tasks.
Voluntariness and extent of telework – association with heart rate variability Januario LB, Heiden M, Mathiassen SE, Korkeakunnas T, Bergström G & Hallman DM 2023 Ergonomics & Human Factors 2023, Charted Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors (CIEHF) Cohort study; white-collar workers, N = 294 Measurement R-R-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study evaluating the impact that (1) voluntariness and (2) extent of telework had on 24h HRV measured objectively for three days in white-collar workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supporting each other’s heart at work: An ambulatory field study Santarpia, F P, Filosa, L, Ottaviani, C, Borgogni, L, & Alessandri, G 2023 International Journal of Stress Management, 30(3), 262-273. Cohort study; adults from various sectors, N = 144 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study exploring the association between perceived social support at work (from coworkers and supervisors), and HRV.
Physiological arousal guides situational appraisals and metacognitive recall for naturalistic experiences Stasiak JE, Mitchell WJ, Reisman SS, Gregory DF, Murty VP & Helion C  2023 Neuropsychologia 180, 108467. Experimental study; persons from Philadelphia area, N = 44 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used to collect physiological data in the context of haunted house. The study examined the association between physiological arousal and metacognitive memory of emotional experience.
Tackling childbirth-related intrusive memories with a single-session behavioural intervention involving a visuospatial task: protocol for a single-blind, waitlist-controlled randomised trial Fort D, Deforges C, Messerli-Bürgy N, Michael T, Baud D, Lalor J, Rimmele U & Horsch A 2023 BMJ open, 13(5), e073874. Study protocol for Randomized, controlled trial The study plan includes HRV recording with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 in a study evaluating the impact of behavioural intervention on childbirth-related intrusive memories and post-traumatic stress symptoms of mothers.
Beliefs in Regulating Negative Emotions and Vagally Mediated Heart Rate Variability: Does Sex Make a Difference? Alessandri G, Filosa L, Eisenberg N, & Ottaviani C  2023 Psychosomatic medicine, 85(4), 322-331 Cross-sectional study; workers for various professions, N = 161 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and investigated the association between regulatory emotional self-efficacy beliefs in managing negative emotions and HRV.
ECG Smart Monitoring versus Implantable Loop Recorders for Atrial Fibrillation Detection after Cryptogenic Stroke—An Overview for Decision Making Pezawas T 2023 Journal of cardiovascular development and disease, 10(7), 306. Review The review provides an overview of current evidence, techniques, and gaps in knowledge and aims to advise which patients benefit most from the current available devices related to atrial fibrillation. The study lists Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 as one ECG based wearable device.
Police lethal force errors and stress physiology during video and live evaluation simulations Di Nota PM, Huhta J, Boychuk EC & Andersen JP 2023 Police practice & research, 1-11. Observational study; police officers, N=187 Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study examining performance (i.e., shoot/no-shoot errors) and stress physiology among police officers during virtual (i.e., video-based) and live scenarios.
Identity affirmation is associated with adaptive cardiovascular flexibility in response to stress among sexual and gender minority people of color Ghabrial MA & Andersen JP  2023 Social science & medicine (1982), 320, 115703. Explorative study; adults with colourful color identity, N = 95 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study exploring the association between identity affirmation and physiological resilience, observed through cardiovascular flexibility in response to stress among people of color.
Cognitive dissonance increases spine loading in the neck and low back Weston, E B, Hassett, A L, Khan, S N, Weaver, T E, & Marras, W S 2023 Ergonomics Experimental study; healthy adults, N = 17 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study investigating the potential role of cognitive dissonance in biomechanical loading in the low back and neck.
The effects of left prefrontal stimulation on selective attention and emotional reactivity for positive and negative information Szeremeta EM, Sutton D, Marinovic W & Clarke PJF 2023 Biological Psychology, 182, 108640 Experimental study; unselected participants, N = 101 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study examining whether anodal transcranial direct current stimulation targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex would affect attentional bias towards either or both negative and positive content, and how it would impact emotional reactivity to negative and positive emotional content among healthy individuals.
Effectiveness of single-lead ECG devices for detecting atrial fibrillation: An overview of systematic reviews Gu HY, Huang J, Liu X,Qiao SQ & Cao X 2023 Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing Systematic review The paper synthesizes the available evidence on the effectiveness of single-lead ECG devices in detecting atrial fibrillation. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was presented as one feasible option.
Sensitivity and Specificity of Wearables for Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly Populations: A Systematic Review Babar F, Cheema AM, Ahmad Z, Sarfraz A, Sarfraz Z, Ashraff H, Tayyab H, Bajwa AM, Ali H, Sarfraz M, Shahzad A & Sabzwari SRA 2023 Current Cardiology Reports, 25, 761–779 Systematic review The paper was a systematic review about the sensitivity and specificity of wearable devices for atrial fibrillation (AF) detection in older adults, as well as examined the incidence of AF across various studies, contextual factors impacting AF detection, and safety and adverse events associated with wearable use. The review demonstrated that wearable devices, such as smartwatches, can effectively identify arrhythmias like AF in older adults, with scalable potential in PPG-based and single-lead electrocardiography-based wearables. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was presented as one feasible option.
Face your heart: resting vagally mediated Heart Rate Variability Shapes Social Attributions from facial appearance Bagnis A, Ottaviani C & Mattarozzi K 2023 Current Psychology Experimental study; university students, N = 79 Measurement RR-intervals Phylogenetic theories suggest resting vagally mediated HRV as a biomarker for adaptive behavior in social encounters. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection and resting RMSSD was recorded in participants before they rated a series of faces based on their first impression of trustworthiness, dominance, typicality, familiarity, caring, and attractiveness. Higher RMSSD levels predicted higher scores on ratings of caring and trustworthiness, suggesting that strangers’ faces are more likely to be perceived as safer.
Mapping the mental space of emotional concepts through kinematic measures of decision uncertainty Barca L, Candidi M, Lancia GL, Maglianella V & Pezzulo G 2023 Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 378: 20210367 Experimental study; healthy adults, N = 30 Measurement RR-intervals The study employed a similarity judgement of emotional concepts and manipulated the contextual congruency of the responses along the two main affective dimensions of hedonic valence and physiological activation, respectively. Behavioural and kinematics measures were combined to gather a novel ‘similarity index’ between emotional concepts, to derive topographical maps of their mental representations. Self-report (interoceptive sensibility, positive–negative affectivity, depression) and physiological measures (HRV) have been collected to explore their possible association with emotional conceptual representation.
A bioelectronic route to compassion: Rationale and study protocol for combining transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) with compassionate mental imagery. Kamboj SK, Peniket M & Simeonov L 2023 PLoS ONE 18(3): e0282861 Study protocol The paper describes a protocol for examining the role of vagus nerve activation on ‘state’ self-compassion, self-criticism, and related outcomes. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 will be used for data collection. Randomized design will be employed and 120 healthy volunteers recruited.
Approaches, Applications, and Challenges in Physiological Emotion Recognition—A Tutorial Overview Can YS, Mahesh B & André E 2023 Proceedings of the IEEE (pre-print) Tutorial article The tutorial article provides an overview of practical aspects of emotion recognition, such as experiment design, properties of different physiological modalities, existing datasets, suitable machine learning algorithms for physiological data, and several applications. It aims to provide the necessary psychological and physiological backgrounds through various emotion theories and the physiological manifestation of emotions, thereby laying a foundation for emotion recognition. Finally, the tutorial discusses open research directions and possible solutions. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 and 3 are presented as options for physiology monitoring.
At the heart of change: Differences in young offenders’ HRV patterns after the delivery of the PSYCHOPATHY.COMP program Sousa R, Ribeiro da Silva D, Petrocchi N, Gilbert P & Rijo D 2023 Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13 Experimental study; young offenders, N = 109 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study testing the efficacy of the PSYCHOPATHY.COMP, a 20-session individual intervention program based on Compassion Focused Therapy aiming to reduce psychopathic traits and disruptive behavior among young offenders through the development of a compassionate motivation, while stimulating the soothing system as a strategy to improve emotion regulation.
Reliability and Sensitivity of Nocturnal Heart Rate and Heart-Rate Variability in Monitoring Individual Responses to Training Load Nuuttila OP, Seipäjärvi S, Kyröläinen H & Nummela A 2022 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 17 (8): 1296–1303 Experimental study; recreational runners, N = 38 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used to collect RR-intervals in a study exploring the reliability of nocturnal HR and HRV and to analyze the sensitivity of these markers to maximal endurance exercise during 4h early night, full sleep, and next morning time points. The study found that nocturnal HR and HRV indices are highly reliable. Demanding maximal exercise increases HR and decreases HRV most systematically in early 4h and full-night segments.
The ‘Rippling’ Waves of Wellbeing: A Mixed Methods Evaluation of a Surf-Therapy Intervention on Patients with Acquired Brain Injury Wilkie L, Fisher Z & Kemp AH 2022 Sustainability, 14, 9605 A partially mixed sequential equal-status design; Neurorehabilitation patients, N = 15 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat devices were used for data collection in a study exploring the effects of adapted surf therapy intervention on the well-being of individuals with acquired brain injury.
Accelerated forgetting of a trauma-like event in healthy men and women after a single dose of hydrocortisone Hennessy VE, Luzia Troebinger L , Georges Iskandar G, Das RK &Kambo SK 2022 Translational Psychiatry (2022) 12:35 Randomised-controlled, double-blind design; Healthy men and women, N = 120 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for HR data collection in a study examining the effects of exogenous cortisol (hydrocortisone) in a preclinical model of posttraumatic stress disorder.
Emotional reactivity and parenting in families experiencing homelessness. Palmer AR, Foster RA, Distefano R & Masten AS 2022 Journal of Family Psychology, 36(4), 636–641. Cross-sectional study; 4- to 7-year-old children and their caregivers staying in an emergency homeless shelter, N = 50 children Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for collecting physiological data in a study examining how subjective (i.e., self-report), observed, and physiological measures of parent emotional reactivity relate to each other and to observed parenting behaviors in problem-solving and teaching parent–child interaction tasks.
Assessment of Physical Work Demands of Home Care Workers in Norway: An Observational Study Using Wearable Sensor Technology Tjøsvoll SV, Wiggen Ø, Gonzalez V , Seeberg TM, Redzovic SE, Frostad Liaset I, Holtermann A & Steiro Fimland M 2022 Annals of Work Exposures and Health, 6 (9), 1187–1198 Observational study; Home care workers, N = 114 Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study was assessing the physical work demands in home care using wearable sensors.
The Effects of Individual Characteristics of the Naval Personnel on Sleepiness and Stress during Two Different Watchkeeping Schedules Myllylä M, Kyröläinen H, Ojanen T, Ruohola J-P, Heinonen OJ, Simola P, Vahlberg T, Parkkola KI 2022 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19, 13451 Experimental study; Finnish Defence Forces’ Navy missile patrol boat crewmembers, N = 18 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study that investigated individual characteristics of the naval personnel, as well as sleepiness, fatigue and stress responses experienced during shift work and irregular working hours in a naval environment.
Monitoring Heart Rate Variability and Its Association with High-Intensity Running, Psychometric Status, and Training Load in Elite Female Soccer Players during Match Weeks Santos-García DJ, Serrano DR, Ponce-Bordón JC & Nobari H 2022 Sustainability, 14, 14815 Cross-sectional study; female soccer players, N = 8 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for collecting HR data in a study tracking HRV in elite Spanish female soccer players during match weeks and examining its connection to high-intensity running, psychometric status, and training load.
The Impact on the Stress-Associated Autonomic Response of Physiotherapy Students Receiving Interferential Current in an Electrotherapy Training Session Espejo-Antúnez L, Fernández-Morales C, Hernández-Sánchez S, Cardero-Durán MdlÁ, Toledo-Marhuenda JV & Albornoz-Cabello M 2022 International Journal of Environtal Research & Public Health, 19(20), 13348 Experimental study; healthy male physiotherapy degree students, N = 90 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study evaluating the stress-associated autonomic response of physiotherapy students receiving interferential current by measuring and analysing HRV.
Analysis of heart rate variability during emergency flight simulator missions in fighter pilots Fernández-Morales C, Espejo-Antúnez L, Clemente-Suárez VJ, Tabla-Hinojosa FB & Albornoz-Cabello M 2022 BMJ Military Health Experimental study; pilots from the Spanish Air and Space Force, N = 18 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard monitor was used to record HRV data during the session with emergency situations in the flight simulator.
Using Actigraphy and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) to Assess Sleep Quality and Sleep Arousal of Three App-Based Interventions: Sleep Music, Sleepcasts, and Guided Mindfulness Kirk U, Ngnoumen C, Clausel A & Kennedy Purvis C 2022 Journal of Cognitive Enhancement, 6, 216–231 Within-subject crossover study, adults, N = 40 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study investigating the impact of different interventions on sleep arousal, sleep quality, and cognitive functioning. Participants were assigned to 1-week interventions based on sleep music, sleepcasts, and guided mindfulness sessions for 15–45 min and a non-intervention control condition. The results provided support for the guided mindfulness intervention both during pre-sleep period and sleep period, and partial support for the sleep music and sleepcasts interventions restricted to the pre-sleep period. Only guided mindfulness positively influenced HRV during the sleep period and showed an impact on cognitive functioning post-sleep.
The interplay of self-critical rumination and resting heart rate variability on subjective well-being and somatic symptom distress: A prospective study Kocsel N, Köteles F, Attila Galambos A & Kökönyei G 2022 Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 152, 110676 Prospective cohort study; undergraduate students, N = 84 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports chest straps were used to collect RR-intervals in a study that investigated the association of self-critical rumination, autonomic function (resting heart rate variability-RMSSD), subjective well-being and somatic symptom distress.
Rationale, design, and methods: A randomized placebo-controlled trial of an immunomodulatory probiotic intervention for Veterans with PTSD Brenner LA, Stearns-Yoder KA, Stamper CE, Hoisington AJ, Brostow DP, Hoffmire CA, Forster JE, Donovan ML, Ryan AT, Postolache TT & Lowry CA 2022 Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 28, 100960 Study protocol The paper presents a study protocol for a longitudinal, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled design Phase IIa trial of LGG for United States military Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The study plan includes Bodyguard 2 measurement for HRV analysis.
Nurturing compassion in schools: A randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of a Compassionate Mind Training program for teachers Matos M, Albuquerque I, Galhardo A, Cunha M, Pedroso Lima M, Palmeira L, Petrocchi N, McEwan K, Maratos FA & Gilbert P 2022 PLoS ONE 17(3): e0263480 Randomized controlled trial (RCT), public school teachers, N = 155 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study addressing mental and physical health problems and promoting wellbeing in educational settings among teachers. The study investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of an 8-week Compassionate Mind Training program for Teachers (CMT-T) on indicators of psychological and physiological wellbeing.
Associations between 24-h heart rate variability and aerobic fitness in high-level female soccer players Costa JA, Brito J, Nakamura FY, Dores H & Rebelo A 2022 Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 32(Suppl. 1): 140–149 Experimental study; female soccer players, N = 16 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for 24h RR-interval collection in a study investigating the changes in 24-h HRV and aerobic fitness. Enhanced vagal activity after 4-week preseason period increased the occurrence of vagal saturation in high-level female soccer players. Increases in HRV were significantly correlated with aerobic fitness change.
Are changes in pain associated with changes in heart rate variability in patients treated for recurrent or persistent neck pain? Bakken AG, Eklund A, Warnqvist A, O’Neill S, Hallman DM & Axén I 2022 BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23, 895 Secondary data analysis from a multicenter randomized controlled trial; patients with chronic neck pain, N = 127 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study examining if changes in pain vary with changes in heart rate variability in a cohort of patients treated for persistent or recurrent neck pain.
Embodied Learning for Well-Being, Self-Awareness, and Stress Regulation: A Randomized Trial with Engineering Students Using a Mixed-Method Approach Rodríguez-Jiménez R-M, Carmona M, García-Merino S, Díaz-Ureña G, Lara Bercial PJ 2022 Education Sciences, 2(2): 111. Experimental study; engineering students, N = 39 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for measuring RR-intervals in a study developing and evaluating the impacts of body awareness program based on Dance Movement Therapy in engineering students.
Effects of operational assessment of the 4:4 and 4:4/6:6 watch systems on sleepiness, fatigue, and stress responses during patrolling on a navy missile patrol boat Myllylä M, Kyröläinen H, Ojanen T, Ruohola J-P, Heinonen OJ, Vahlberg T & Parkkola KI 2022 Chronobiology International, 39:9, 1233-1241 Experimental study; navy missile patrol boat crew members, N = 15 Measurement RR-intervals The operation of naval vessels involves watchkeeping 24 h per day, which is globally carried out by a variety of different watch systems. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used in a study comparing the rotating 4:4 and fixed 4:4/6:6 two-section watch systems in terms of sleepiness, fatigue, and stress responses.
Effects of Three Genres of Focus Music on Heart Rate Variability and Sustained Attention Kirk U, Ngnoumen C, Clausel A & Kennedy Purvis C 2022 Journal of Cognitive Enhancement 6, 143–158 Randomized controlled trial; healthy adults, N = 120 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study exploring whether music can be applied as a low-cost, non-invasive “on the spot” intervention to improve cognitive performance and physiological effects. The study found evidence of a pronounced effect of three types of focus music on both cognitive performance and the underlying physiological response.
Global Study of Human Heart Rhythm Synchronization with the Earth’s Time Varying Magnetic Field
 Timofejeva I, McCraty R, Atkinson M, Aladulgader AA, Vainoras A, Landauskas M, Šiaučiūnaitė V & Ragulskis M 2021 Applied Sciences, 11(7), 2935 Experimental study; global participant distribution, n = 104 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Bodyguard 2 for data collection to explore the changes in earth’s geomagnetic conditions and the rhythms produced by the brain and heart.
A Pragmatic Controlled Trial of Forest Bathing Compared with Compassionate Mind Training in the UK: Impacts on Self-Reported Wellbeing and Heart Rate Variability
 McEwan K, Giles D, Clarke F.J, Kotera Y, Evans G, Terebina O, Minou L, Teeling C, Basran J, Wood W & Weil D 2021 Sustainability, 13(3), 1380 Experimental study; university staff and students, n = 61 Measurement RR-intervals The study focused on Forest Bathing where individuals use mindfulness to engage with nature. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection to study the effects on HRV.
Emotional reactivity and parenting in families experiencing homelessness
 Palmer AR, Foster RA, Distefano R & Masten AS 2021 Journal of Family Psychology Observational study; 58 families in homeless center Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study that evaluated the effectiveness of a modified 1-day version of an established autonomic modulation intervention.
Testing the Efficacy of a 1-Day Police Decision-Making and Autonomic Modulation Intervention: A Quasi-Random Pragmatic Controlled Trial
 Di Nota PM, Arpaia J, Boychuk EC, Collins PI & Pizarro Andersen J 2021 Frontiers in Psychology, 12: 719046 Intervention study; police officers, n = 187 Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study that evaluated the effectiveness of a modified 1-day version of an established autonomic modulation intervention.
Predictors of postprandial glycaemia, insulinaemia and insulin resistance in adolescents
 Williams RA, Dring KJ, Cooper SB, Morris JG, Sunderlans C & Nevill ME 2021 British Journal of Nutrition, Vol.125 (10), pp. 1101-1110 Experimental study; adolescents, n = 108 Measurement HR The study examined how participant characteristics such as BMI, waist circumference, fitness and maturity offset affect the postprandial glycaemic and insulinaemic responses to a standard meal. Firstbeat was used in fitness testing of the participants.
One-Minute Deep Breathing Assessment and its Relationship to 24-Hour HRV Measurements McCraty R, Atkinson M & Dispenza J 2021 Heart Mind 2:70-7 Experimental study; healthy individuals, n = 805 Measurement RR-intervals The study examined the correlations between the 1min paced deep breathing assessment and 24h HRV measures in a general population. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection.
Compassion Is Not a Benzo: Distinctive Associations of Heart Rate Variability With Its Empathic and Action Components
 Di Bello M, Ottaviani C & Petrocchi N 2021 Frontiers in Neuroscience, 15:617443 Experimental study; university students, n = 45 Measurement RR-intervals The study examined the association between vagally mediated HRV and the empathic sensitivity and action components of trait and state compassion. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection.
Anxiety and Attentional Processes: The Role of Resting Heart Rate Variability
 Forte G, Favieri F, Osariemen Oliha E, Marotta A & Casagrande M 2021 Brain Sciences, 11(4), 480 Experimental study; university students, n = 75 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for collecting RR-intervals in a study aiming to study the association between trait anxiety levels and attentional mechanisms.
Stimulating meditation: a pre-registered randomised controlled experiment combining a single dose of the cognitive enhancer, modafinil, with brief mindfulness training
 Thomas EM, Freeman TP, Poplutz P, Howden K,
Hindocha C, Bloomfield M & Kamboj SK		 2021 Journal of Psychopharmalogy
Vol. 35, Issue 6 (621-630)		 Experimental study; n = 79 Measurement RR-interval Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study exploring the effects of cognitive enhancer, modafinil, mindfulness, and relaxation on state of mindfulness, affect and autonomic activity.
Sleep Indices and Cardiac Autonomic Activity Responses during an International Tournament in a Youth National Soccer Team
 Figueiredo P, Costa J, Lastella M, Morais J & Brito J 2021 International Journal of Environtal Research and Public Health, 18 (4), 2076 Observational study; male youth soccer players, n = 18 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 during night’s sleep when aiming to describe habitual sleep and nocturnal cardiac autonomic activity and their relationship with training/match load in male youth soccer players during an international tournament.
Wearable Devices Suitable for Monitoring Twenty Four Hour Heart Rate Variability in Military Populations
 Hinde K, White G & Armstrong N 2021 Sensors 2021, 21, 1061 Review of scientific literature Review This paper reviews different HRV devices, especially from military usage point of view. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 is presented as one possible option.
Tapering and Repeated High-Intensity Effort Ability in Young Elite Rugby Union Players: Influence of Pretaper Fatigue Level
 Vachon A, Berryman N, Mujika I, Paquet J-B & Bosquet L 2021 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, Vol. 16, Issue 7 Experimental study; Rugby union players, n = 14 Measurement HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study investigating the effects of a short-term taper on the ability to perform repeated high intensity efforts, depending on players’ fatigue level following an intensive training block.
Lempel-Ziv complexity of the pNNx statistics – an application to neonatal stress
 „Šapina M, Kumar Karmakar C, Kramarić K, Kósmider M, Garcin M,
Brdarić D, Milas K & Yearwood J“		 2021 Chaos, Solitons & Fractals, Vol. 146 Experimental study; healthy newborns, n = 40 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard 2 was used for RR-interval data collection in a study exploring HRV dynamics under two different types of stress stimuli – a routine heel stick blood sampling, and a dull heel pressure stimulation.
The Lausanne Infant Crying Stress Paradigm: Validation of an Early Postpartum Stress Paradigm with Women at Low vs. High Risk of Childbirth-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
 Sandoz V, Stujifzand S, Lacroix A, Deforges C, Quillet Diop M, Ehlert U, Rubo M, Messerli-Bürgy N & Horsch A 2021 „Journal of Personalized Meicine,
Vol. 11, Issue 6″		 Cross-sectional experimental study; postpartum mothers, n = 52 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for RR-interval data collection in a study exploring stress reactivity through HRV, salivary cortisol, and perceived stress measurement in postpartum mothers. Psychophysiological responses were compared in women at low vs. high risk of childbirth-related posttraumatic stress disorder.
Physiological and Emotional Arousal Guide Metacognitive Reporting and Recall of Naturalistic Experiences
 Stasiak J, Mitchell WJ, Reisman S, Gregory DF, Murty VP & Helion C 2021 PsyArXiv. January 11. Experimental study; n = 54 Applied use HR Firstbeat Sports was used for HR data collection in a study using context of a haunted house to examine the association between physiological arousal and metacognitive memory of emotional experience (recall).
Diving Responses in Experienced Rebreather Divers: Short-Term Heart Rate Variability in Cold Water Diving
 Lundell RV, Tuominen L, Ojanen T, Parkkola K & Räisänen-Sokolowski A 2021 Frontiers in Physiology, 12:649319. Experimental study; experienced divers, n = 26 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 for collecting RR-interval data when evaluating divers’ ANS responses during dives in 2–4°C water.
Heart Rate Variability Monitoring during Interferential Current Application in the Lower Back Area: A Cross-Sectional Study
 De-la-cruz-Torres B, Martínez-Jiménez E, Navarro-Flores E, Palomo-López P, Abuín-Porras V, Díaz-Meco-Conde R, López-López D
& Romero-Morales C		 2021 International Journal of Environtal Research and Public Health, 18 (7), 3394 Intervention study; male volunteers, n = 73 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study examining variations in autonomic activity during the application of interferential current in asymptomatic participants.
Heart Rate Variability and Decision-Making: Autonomic Responses in Making Decisions
 Forte G, Morelli M & Casagrande M 2021 Brain Sciences, 11 (2): 243 Experimental study; university students, n = 130 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection in a study investigating the relationship between HRV and the decision-making process.
Body focus and cardioceptive accuracy are not associated with physical performance and perceived fatigue in a sample of individuals with regular physical activity
 Kósa L, Mikó A, Ferentzi E, Szabolcs Z, Bogdány T, Ihász F & Köteles F 2021 Psychophysiology, Volume 58, Issue 9 Experimental study; sedentary subjects, n = 98 Measurement HR Firstbeat SPORTS was used for tracking HR in a study exploring cardioceptive accuracy, performance and perceived fatigue.
Efficient methods for acute stress detection using heart rate variability data from Ambient Assisted Living sensors
 Szakonyi B, Vassányi I, Schumacher E & Kósa I 2021 BioMedical Engineering Online 20: 73 Experimental study; adults, n = 7 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Bodyguard 2 for data aqcuisition for developing a model predicting experienced stress with HRV metrics.
Resting state heart rate variability and false memories
 Feeling N, Williams DP, Speller LF, Loftus EF, Koenig J & Thayer JF 2021 International Journal of Psychophysiology, 159, 17-22 Experimental study; Undergraduate students, n = 71 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard2 was used for data collection in a study assessing a possible link between resting HRV with memory encoding and retrieval.n = 71 undergraduate students.
Ambulatory Heart Rate Variability in Schizophrenia or Depression
 Bengtsson J, Olsson E, Igelström H, Persson J & Bodén R 2021 J Clin Psychopharmacol. 41(2): 121–128. Cross-sectional study; 80 patients and 64 healthy controls, n = 144 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard2 was used to collect HRV data in a study exploring how demographic, lifestyle, and pharmacological factors contribute to the HRV metrics in schizophrenia and depression patients.
Dissociating cognitive, behavioral and physiological stress-related responses through dorsolateral prefrontal cortex inhibition Era V, Carnevali L, Thayer JF, Candid M, Ottaviani C 2021 Psychoneuroendocrinology, Volume 124 Experimental study; Students, n = 32 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard2 was used for data collection in a study exploring the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation techniques in the regulation of stress-related cognitive processes and physiological responses.
Does Childcare Work Promote Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Health? A Cross-Sectional Study of Danish Childcare Workers Based on Accelerometry and Heart Rate Measurements Schmidt KG, Kildedal R, Lerche AF, Vilhelmsen M, Rasmussen CL, Mathiassen SE, Straker L & Holtermann A 2021 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23): 12496. Cross-sectional study; childcare workers, N = 51 Measurement HR Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for HR data collection in a study investigating the composition, intensity and alternations of physical behaviors during work and leisure among childcare workers.
An external telemetry system for recording resting heart rate variability and heart rate in free-ranging large wild mammals Twiss SD, Brannan N, Shuert CR, Bishop AM, Pomeroy PP & Moss S 2021 PLoS ONE 16(6): e0252013 Experimental study; adult grey seals at the Isle of May Measurement RR-intervals The study deployed Firstbeat Sports chest belt in wild mammals, on wild breeding adult female grey seals (Halichoerus grypus), for monitoring indicators of individual differences in temperament and reactivity to physical and psychological stress.
Circadian rhythmicity of heart rate variability and its impact on cardiac autonomic modulation in asthma Sinha M, Behera AK, Sinha R, Parganiha A, Pande B, Sharma R & Pati AK 2021 Chronobiology International, 38:11, 1631-1639 Experimental study; asthmatic patients and healthy persons, N = 63 Measurement RR-intervals 72-h continuous recording of RR interval, with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device, and oxygen saturation was done to study the circadian variability of HRV and to assess the pattern of alterations in sympathetic and parasympathetic tones at different times of the day in asthmatic patients and healthy control subjects.
A Pragmatic Study of the Impact of a Brief Mindfulness Intervention on Prisoners and Staff in a Category B Prison and Men Subject to Community-Based Probation Supervision
 Davies J, Ugwudike P, Young H, Hurrel C & Raynor P 2020 International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 65 (1): 136-156 Intervention study; prisoners, staff, and men under community probation supervision, n = 87 Measurement RR-intervals The article presents two studies assessing the impact of mindfulness in prison (prisoners and staff) and non-custodial settings. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used for RR-interval collection for HRV analysis.
Religiously oriented mindfulness for social workers: effects on mindfulness, heart rate variability, and personal burnout
 Trammel RC, Park G & Karlsson I 2020 Journal of Religion & Spirituality in Social Work: Social Thought, DOI: 10.1080/15426432.2020.1818358 Intervention study; adults, n = 22 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard2 was used to collect HRV data in a study exploring the effects of a Religiously Oriented Mindfulness (ROM) on mindfulness, cardiac vagal tone, and personal burnout.
Social anxiety symptoms, heart rate variability, and vocal emotion recognition in women: evidence for parasympathetically-mediated positivity bias
 Madison A, Vasey M, Emery CF & Kiecolt-Glaser JK 2020 Anxiety, Stress & Coping, DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2020.1839733 Experimental study; Female undergraduates, n = 124 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used to record RR-intervals in a study that examined the associations among social anxiety symptoms, HRV, and vocal emotion recognition.
The Effects of Presleep Slow Breathing and Music Listening on Polysomnographic Sleep Measures – a pilot trial
 Kuula L, Halonen R, Kajanto K, Lipsanen J et al. 2020 Nature Scientific Reports 10:7427 Randomized controlled trial; Young adults, n = 20 Measurement HRV The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard2 and Firstbeat Cloud for HRV analysis when exploring the effects of presleep slow breathing and music listening conditions on sleep quality, EEG power spectral density and HRV.
Equal health at work? Protocol for an observational study of work organisation, workload and musculoskeletal complaints among women and men in grocery retail
 Mathiassen SE, Bolin M, Olofsdotter G & Johansson E 2020 BMJ Open, 10(1): e032409. Description of study protocol – – The study describes a study protocol for a study that will use Firstbeat Bodyguard2 to explore workloads in men and women working at grocecy retail.
Cardioceptive accuracy is associated with arousal but not with valence and perceived exertion under physical load
 Köteles F, Teufel B, Körmendi J, Ferentzi E & Szemerszky R 2020 „Psychophysiology, 57 (9):
e13620″		 Experimental study; Young adults, n = 67 Measurement HR HR was measured using Firstbeat Heart rate monitoring belts and Sports software in a study assessing the associations between cardioceptive accuracy and characteristics of the affective response during physical activity.
A Contact-Free, Ballistocardiography-Based Monitoring System (Emfit QS) for Measuring Nocturnal Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability: Validation Study
 Vesterinen V, Rinkinen N & Nummela A 2020 JMIR Biomed Eng 5(1):e16620 Evaluation study; Healthy participants, n = 20 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard2 was used as an ECG-based reference device for ballistocardiography-based HR monitoring system.
Exploring the relationship between geomagnetic activity and human heart rate variability Mattoni M, Ahn S, Fröhlich C et al. 2020 Eur J Appl Physiol 120, 1371–1381 Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 20 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard2 was used for collecting data for 30 consecutive days in a study exploring the effects of geomagnetic/solar activity on HRV.
Reliability of the BodyGuard2 (FirstBeat) in the detection of heart rate variability Palmer AR, Distefano R, Leneman K B & Berry D 2020 Open Science Framework (OSF) Cross-sectional study; Children, n = 15 Validation RR-intervals The study evaluated the reliability of Bodyguard2 in active and resting conditions in 4 to 6 years old children. The study reported that BG2 provided highly similar HRV results than gold-standard ECG method.
The Effects of an Intensive 2-wk Resistance Training Period on Strength Performance and Nocturnal Heart Rate Variability Kaikkonen P, Hynynen E, Hautala A & Ahtiainen JP 2020 International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 15 (10): 1448–1454 Intervention; Young men, N = 13 Applied use RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard device was used to collect nocturnal HRV in a study exploring the effects of an intensive 2-wk resistance training period on the nocturnal HRV and strength performance of healthy participants.
Acute physiological and affective responses in postmenopausal women during prescribed and self-selected aerobic exercise
 Batista DR, Meneghel V, Ornelas F, Moreno MA, Lopes CR & Braz TV 2019 Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte, 19 (2): 28-38 Experimental study; Active post-menopausal women, n=30 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Sports heart rate belts were used to collect HR data in a study which aimed to compare physiological and psychological responses in prescribed and self-selected aerobic sessions in postmenopausal women for optimizing physical activity adherence.
The effect of spinal manipulative therapy on heart rate variability and pain in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial Galaasen Bakken A, Axén I, Eklund A & O’Neill S 2019 Trials 20, 590 Study protocol The paper presents a study protocol for a study examining the effects of spinal manipulative therapy on HRV and pain. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 is used for HRV data collection.
Autonomic Responses to Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis: Effect of Needle Puncture or Electrical Current? Bermejo PG, De La Cruz Torres B, Orellana JN & Cabello MA 2018 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 24: 1 Experimental case-control study; Male football players, n=36 Measurement RR-intervals The study used Firstbeat Bodyguard when exploring if the changes in sympathetic and parasympathetic activity (analyzed through HRV) during ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) is due to the effect of needle puncture only or of the PNE technique per se where the puncture and galvanic current are combined.
High intensity intermittent games-based activity and adolescents’ cognition: moderating effect of physical fitness
 Cooper S, Dring K, Morris J, Sunderland C, Bandelow S & Nevill M 2018 BMC Public Health 18:603 Cross-sectional study; Adolescents, n=39 Measurement RR-intervals The subjects performed an exercise and resting trial in randomized order and cognitive tasks before and after trials. During 60-min game-based activity heart rate was monitored with Firstbeat team sport system. Exercise trial enhanced working memory and executive function, but had no effect on attention and information processing speed.
The effects of intensified training on resting metabolic rate (RMR), body composition and performance in trained cyclists
 Woods A, Rice A, Garvican-Lewis L, Wallett A, Lundy B, Rogers M , Welvaert M , Halson S , McKune A &Thompson K 2018 PLoS ONE 13(2) Cross-sectional study; Athletes, n=13 Measurement RR-intervals Trained male cyclist performed a 6-week training program, where training load varied from 80% to 150% compared to baseline week. HRV was measured with Firstbeat’s HR strap during RMR measurements. Proactive monitoring of HRV, energy intake, body mass, power output, mood state during intensified training period may be beneficial to optimize training adaptations.
Long-Term Study of Heart Rate Variability Responses to Changes in the Solar and Geomagnetic Environment
 Alabdulgader A, McCraty R, Atkinson M, Dobyns Y, Vainoras A, Ragulskis M & Stolc V 2018 Scientific Reports 8 (2663) Experimental study; Healthy adults, n=16 Measurement RR-intervals The study examined relationships between solar and magnetic factors and the time course and lags of autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses to changes in solar and geomagnetic activity. Heart rate variability (HRV) was recorded with Firstbeat Bodyguard for 72 consecutive hours each week over a five-month period in 16 participants in order to examine ANS responses during normal background environmental periods.
Associations of Physical Fitness and Body Composition Characteristics with Simulated Military Task Performance
 Pihlainen K, Santtila M, Häkkinen K & Kyröläinen H 2018 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 32 (4), 1089-1098 Cross-sectional study; Soldiers, n=81 Applied use HR The study examined the associations of body composition and physical fitness with anaerobic performance. Firstbeat PRO was used for heart rate analysis.
Taekwondo Fighting in Training Does Not Simulate the Affective and Cognitive Demands of Competition: Implications for Behavior and Transfer
 Maloney M, Renshaw I, Headrick J, Martin D & Farrow D 2018 Frontiers in Psychology 9 (25) Cross-sectional stydy; Athletes, n=10 Measurement HR Firstbeat’s heart-rate monitors was used to measure pre-fight data. Fighting in training does not have same demands than in competition. Lower levels of e.g. arousal and heart rate may affect on skill transfer from training to competition.
Neural Mechanisms of Qigong Sensory Training Massage for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Feasibility Study
 Jerger K, Lundegard L, Piepmeier A, Faurot K, Ruffino A, Jerger M & Belger A 2018 Global Advances in Health and Medicine 7, 1-10 Cross-sectional study; Children, n=20 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard 2 was used to monitor RR-intervals for HRV analysis of autistic children in a study exploring the feasibility of Qisong Sensory Training.
Rating of perceived exertion is a stable and appropriate measure of workload in judo
 Bromley S, Drew M, McIntosh A & Talpey S 2018 Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Cross-sectional study; Athletes, n=29 Measurement HR Firstbeat’s technology was used to monitor heart rate in judo.
Diminished heart rate complexity in adolescent girls: a sign of vulnerability to anxiety disorders?
 Fiol-Veny A, Torre-Luque A, Balle M & Bornas X 2018 Anxiety, Stress & Coping 31 (4), 375-386 Cross-sectional study; Adolecents, n=95 Measurement RR-intervals Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection during school. Highly anxious subjects had lower HRV than low-anxiety group, and girls are more vulnerable to developing anxiety disorders than boys.
In‐season changes in heart rate recovery are inversely related to time to exhaustion but not aerobic capacity in rowers
 Haraldsdottir K, Brickson S, Sanfilippo J, Dunn W & Watson A 2018 Scand J Med Sci Sports 28, 418-424 Cross-sectional study; Athletes, n=22 Measurement HR Firstbeat’s chest strap monitor was used to collect HR in a study exploring if in‐season changes in heart rate recovery (HRR) are related to aerobic fitness and performance in collegiate rowers.
No effect of a pulsed magnetic field on induced ischemic muscle pain. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
 Szemerszky R, Szabolcs Z, Bogdány T, Jánossy G, Thuróczy G & Köteles F 2018 Physiology & Behavior 184, 55-59 Randomized controlled trial; University students, n=70 Applied use HR Pulsed magnetic field device had no spesific effect on acute ischemic muscle pain. HR was collected and analyzed with Firstbeat Sports.
Physical fitness and prior physical activity are both associated with less cortisol secretion during psychosocial stress
 Wood C, Clow A, Hucklebridge F, Law R & Smyth N 2018 Anxiety, Stress & Coping 31 (2), 135-145 Cross-sectional study; Non-athletes, n=164 Measurement HR The study explored the effect of fitness and acute physical activity on stress responses elicited by a stress task (Trier Social Stress Test, TSST-G). During the physical activity (PA) and for fitness evaluation HR was monitored with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2. Fitter individuals had reduced cortisol secretion during psychososial stress and that prior PA reduced cortisol concentrations during psychosocial stress. The results suggest that physical activity may reduce the impact of stress on health.
No effect of a pulsed magnetic field on induced ischemic muscle pain. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial Szemerszkya R, Szabolcs Z, Bogdány T, Jánossy G, Thuróczy G & Köteles F 2018 Physiology & Behavior, 184: 1: 55-59 Experimental study; Healthy subjects, n=70 Measurement HR Firstbeat teambelt was used for HR monitoring in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment where the impact of a commercially available whole-body PEMF mat on acute ischemic muscle pain induced in the forearm was studied.
Heart rate variability changes from traditional vs. ultra–short-term recordings in relation to preseason training load and performance in futsal players
 Nakamura FY, Antunes P, Nunes C, Costa JA, Esco MR & Travassos B. 2018 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research Experimental study; Male futsal players, n=11 Measurement RR-intervals The study analyzed HRV changes in futsal players during preseason training using both “criterion” (10-minute) and ultra-shortened (2-minute) measures, and determined whether they were related to changes in the Yo-Yo Intermittent RecoveryTest, performance and accumulated training load. Firstbeat Sports was used to collect HRV.
A biomechanical and physiological study of office seat and tablet device interaction
 Weston E, Le P, Marras WS 2017 Applied Ergonomics 62 (2017) 83e93 Experimental study; Adults, n = 20 Applied use HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 was used to measure HRV in a study comparing the ergonomic strain caused by different working positions and devices. They found HRV can serve as an objective measure of seating discomfort.
Feasibility of high-intensity interval training with hyperoxia vs. intermittent hyperoxia and hypoxia in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy – Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial Schumann M, Schulz H, Hackney AC, Bloch W 2017 Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 8: 213-217 Experimental study Applied use None The paper describes a study protocol of an exercise intervention RCT study for cancer patients. Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 will be used to collect HRV information.
Daily monitoring of the internal training load by the heart rate variability: A case study
 Ornelas F, Nakamura F, Dos-Santos J, Batista D, Meneghel V, Nogueira W, Brigatto F, Germano M, Sindorf M, Moreno M, Lopes C & Braz T 2017 Official research journal of the American society of exercise physiologists 20(1): 151-163 Case study; Adult, n = 1 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to record HRV for assessing internal training load of one amateur road running athlete
Heart rate variability during sitting, standing and treadmill exercise: a case study Cox J, Balcavage W, Panta M, Geib R, Oggero E & Waite G 2017 ISA 2017 A case study; Adult, n=1 Measurement RR-intervals The aim of this study was to examine the stability and repeatability of HRV during several months. Bodyguard 2 was used for data collection 24 times during sitting, standing and progressive treadmill loads.
Evaluating the low back biomechanics of three different office workstations: seated, standing, and perching
 Le P & Marras W 2016 Applied ergonomics 56: 170-178 Cohort study; Adults, n = 20 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to measure physiological discomfort assessed via heart rate to study low back biomechanics of three different office workstations
Cardiac-activity measures for assessing airport ramp-tower controller’s workload
 Hayashi M & Dulchinos V 2016 Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting Cross-sectional study; Adults, n = 6 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to measure HRV for assessing workload of airport ramp-tower controllers
Autonomic responses to ultrasound guided percutaneous needle electrolysis of the patellar tendon in healthy male footballers
 de la Cruz Torres B, Cabello M, Bermejo P & Orellana J 2016 Acupuncture in medicine 34(4):275-279 Randomized controlled trial; Adults, n = 22 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard device was used to record HRV to study autonomic responses to ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle acupuncture
Developmental origins of infant stress reactivity profiles: A multi-system approach
 Rash J, Thomas J, Campbell T, Letourneau N, Granger D & Giesbrecht G 2016 Developmental Psychobiology 58(5): 578-599 Cohort study; Adults (women), n = 254 and their infants Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to measure HRV in approx. 6 month old infants and their mothers in a study examining the development of stress reactivity profiles of infants
The role of maternal cardiac vagal control in the association between depressive symptoms and gestational hypertension
 Rouleau C, Tomfohr-Madsen L, Campbell T, Letourneau N, O’Beirne M, Giesbrecht G & The APrON Study Team 2016 Biological Psychology 117: 32-42 Cohort study; Adults (pregnant women), n = 287 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to measure HRV in a study examining the role of HRV in the association between depressed mood and gestational hypertension during pregnancy
Connected heart rate sensors to monitor sleep quality: electrodes, chestbelt and smartwatch users acceptability
 Simonnet M, Billot R & Gourvennec B 2016 CHASE 2016: IEEE First Conference on Connected health: Applications, systems and engineering technologies Experimental study; Adults, n = 12 Usability RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device acceptability during sleep was tested and compared with 2 other monitors with Firstbeat analytics inside
Towards 24/7 continuous heart rate monitoring
 Tarniceriu A, Parak J, Renevey P, Nurmi M, Bertschi M, Delgado-Gonzalo R & Korhonen I 2016 38th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC) Experimental study; Adults, n = 42 Validity RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard was used as an ECG-based reference in a study aiming to develop an algorithmic approach to reduce power consumption of the optical HR monitoring technology in 24/7 HR monitoring
A biomechanical and physiological study of office seat and tablet device interaction
 Weston E, Le P & Marras W 2016 Applied Ergonomics 62: 83-93 Experimental study; Adult 20 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to investigate physiological discomfort and the effects of two different chairs, two different devices, and their interaction.
Acute and dealyed response to resistance exercise leading or not leading to muscle failure
 Pareja-Blanco F, Rodriguez-Rosell D, Sanchez-Medina L, Ribas-Serna J, Lopez-Lopez C, Mora-Custodio R, Yanez-Garcia JM & Gonzales-Badillo J 2016 Clinical Physiology Functional Imaging (Epub ahead of print) doi: 10.1111/cpf.12348 Experimental study; Adults n = 10 Measurement RR-intervals Firtsbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to study autonomic cardiovascular response to resistance exercise protocols differing in the number of repetitions per set
Heartbeat scaling in early adolescents: Its association with anxiety symptoms and sensitivity to punishment
 de la Torre-Luque A, Fiol-Veny A, Balle M & Bornas X 2016 International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology 16: 287-294 Case-control study; Adolescents n = 50 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard was used to evaluate if risk of anxiety disorders may be seen in HRV parameters
Long-Term Monitoring of Physical Behavior Reveals Different Cardiac Responses to Physical Activity among Subjects with and without Chronic Neck Pain
 Hallman D, Mathiassen SE, Lyskov E 2015 BioMed Research International Case-control study; Adults, n = 56 Applied use HRV Firstbeat Bodyguard device was used for measuring HRV in a study assessing differences in HRV responses to daily physical activity between subjects with and without chronic neck pain
Evaluation of the beat-to-beat detection accuracy of PulseOn wearable optical heart rate monitor
 Parak J, Tarniceriu A, Renevey P, Bertschi M, Delgado-Gonzalo R & Korhonen I 2015 Study by PulseOn Experimental study; Adults, n = 10 Validity RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used as an ECG-based reference device against optical beat-by-beat measurement
Two new indexes for the assessment of autonomic balance in elite soccer players
 Orellana J, de la Cruz Torres B, Cachadña ES, de Hoyo M & Cobo SD 2015 International Journal of Sports Physiology Perform 10(4): 452-457 Experimental study; Adults, n = 25 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard device was used for measuring HRV in a study assessing autonomic nervous system balance in elite soccer players
Changes in physical activity and heart rate variability in chronic neck-shoulder pain: monitoring during work and leisure time
 Hallman D, Ekman A & Lyskov E 2014 International archives of occupational and environmental health 87(7): 735-744 Case-control study; Adults, n = 56 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard device was used to measure HRV during sleep to astudy autonomic responses of workers with chronic neck-shoulder pain vs. matched workers without pain
Cognitive, behavioral, and autonomic correlates of mind wandering and perseverative cognition in major depression
 Ottaviani C, Shahabi L, Tarvainen M, Cook I, Abrams M & Shapiro D 2014 Frontiers in Neuroscience 8: 433 Case-control study; Adults, n = 36 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to measure HRV in a study aiming to examine the autonomic concomitants of functional vs. dysfunctional intrusive thoughts in Major Depressive Disorder
Heart rate variability and phantom pain in male amputees: Application of linear and nonlinear methods
 Cachadiña ES, Garcia PG, Da Luz T, Esteban RG, Perez OB, Orellana N & de la Rosa B 2013 Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development 50(3): 449-454 Cross-sectional study; Adults n = 35 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard and Firstbeat analysis method was used to analyze HRV in a study investigating autonomic nervous system function in adult males with amputation
Cognitive Performance and Heart Rate Variability: The Influence of Fitness Level
 Luque-Casado A, Zabala M, Morales E, Mateo-March M & Sanabria D 2013 PlosOne 8(2): e56935 Cross-sectional study; Young males n = 26 Measurement RR-intervals Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 device was used to record HRV during the experimental sessions in a study investigating the relation between cognitive performance and heart rate variability as a function of fitness level
Cognitive Performance and Heart Rate Variability: The Influence of Fitness Level
 Luque-Casado A , Zabala M, Morales E, Mateo-March M & Sanabria D 2013 PLoS One. 8(2): e56935. Cross-sectional study; Males, n=28 Applied use HRV The study investigated the relation between cognitive performance and HRV as a function of fitness level. Two groups of participants, a high-fit group and a low-fit group were performing three cognitive tasks (a psychomotor vigilance task, a temporal orienting task, and a duration discrimination task). Firstbeat Bodyguard and Firstbeat athlete were used for HRV analysis.

 

Wissenschaftliche Publikationen im Zusammenhang mit:

Physiological modeling, signal processing and mathematical modeling

Title Author Year Journal/Proceedings Study design & Population Category Physiological parameter(s) Insights on findings
Energy expenditure can be accurately estimated from HR without individual laboratory calibration.
 Pulkkinen A, Saalasti S & Rusko H 2005 ACSM congress Cross-sectional study: Adult, n = 32 Validity VO2; Energy expenditure Firstbeat method provided an accurate and practical method for estimating energy expenditure without individual laboratory calibration making it especially suitable for field use
Artefact correction for heart beat and interval data Saalasti S, Seppänen M & Kuusela A 2004 ProBisi Meeting, Jyväskylä 1.10.2004 Mathematical; uses R-R interval data Validity HRV The RR-interval artefact correction method by Firstbeat was proven to be fast, very accurate and reliable as it was able to find the correct HR level even in situations where half of the data were artefacts.
On- and Off Dynamics and Respiration Rate Enhance the Accuracy of Heart Rate Based VO2 Estimation
 Pulkkinen A, Kettunen J, Martinmäki K, Saalasti S & Rusko H 2004 ACSM congress Cross-sectional study; Adult, n = 32 Validity VO2 HR-based VO2 estimation can be enhanced using information on On- and Off-dynamics and respiration rate that can be derived reliably using beat-to-beat RR-interval data only
Neural networks for heart rate time series analysis
 Saalasti S 2003 Academic Dissertation. Department of Mathematical Information Technology, University of Jyväskylä, Finland Mathematical: uses R-R interval data Academic Dissertation HRV, EPOC, Respiration rate The study introduced methodology utilizing neural network modeling for interpreting heart rate data, and provided several innovations combining human physiology and mathematical modeling
Rusko et al. (2003). Pre-Prediction of EPOC: A Tool for Monitoring Fatigue Accumulation during Exercise?
 Rusko H, Pulkkinen A, Saalasti S, Hynynen E & Kettunen J 2003 ACSM congress Meta-analysis of 48 peer-reviewed articles; Adult, n = 32 in validation dataset Validity EPOC EPOC can be pre-predicted by using only heartbeat data during exercise