Short-term heart rate variability in resting conditions: methodological considerations

Low values on heart rate variability (HRV) derived parameters at resting have been used to predict cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and mortality. In this regard, short-term HRV recordings (usually from 5 15 minutes) are increasing their popularity because data acquisition can be performed under more controlled conditions than long-term (e.g., 24 hours). However, different methodological aspects before, during, after the assessment could affect quantification clinical interpretations of HRV-derived parameters, as well hamper comparisons across studies. present study, we summarize these that should considered in both research settings. These are: (1) validity reproducibility device assess HRV; (2) influence software perform artefact correction; (3) previous before testing day; (4) establishing proper during respiratory frequency); (5) assessing HRV, considering “best” selection statistical analysis approach; (6) role associations between CVD risk factors outcomes cardiorespiratory fitness) parameters.