Why is my HRV high?
There are several reasons why your HRV (heart rate variability) could be high. The balance between your autonomic nervous system's sympathetic and parasympathetic branches influences HRV. Other factors affecting HRV include exercise, good sleep, a healthy diet, reduced stress, and overall good health. Conversely, poor sleep, unhealthy habits, high stress, and medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension may lower HRV. HRV can fluctuate based on daily activities, emotions, and well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing stress levels are essential to optimise HRV. A balanced nervous system indicates that your body can adapt to its surroundings and function well.
Why do athletes want higher HRV levels?
Athletes strive for higher Heart Rate Variability (HRV) levels, which signals good cardiovascular health and improved physical fitness. A higher HRV indicates efficient stress adaptation and speedy recovery, which is essential for optimal athletic performance. It also means that athletes can engage in intense exercise with a greater capacity and without risking injury or burnout. Higher HRV levels are linked with better quality of sleep and overall well-being, which are crucial for maintaining athletes' physical and mental health during training and competitions.
HRV and Sports Performance
HRV can be used as a tool to monitor athlete recovery and performance. Changes in HRV can indicate an athlete's readiness to perform and guide training and recovery strategies. Moreover, studies indicate that higher HRV is generally associated with better physical performance, potentially predicting athletic success.