Heart rate variability : from recording precautions to applicability to physical exercise.

Abstract

Aim: This narrative review sought to address heart rate variability (HRV) based on concepts and definitions, methods of recording and processing signals, signal interpretation, influencing factors, and applicability to physical exercise. Methods: Bibliographic survey of works published between 2000 and 2022 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo databases. Results: HRV is a non-invasive method for measuring the action of the autonomic nervous system in the heart and has been used as a marker of physical and mental health. HRV measurements can be performed by recording an electrocardiogram or frequency meter, which allows the extraction of several HRV parameters using linear and non-linear methods. Conclusion: HRV is a variable that can be influenced by several factors, and its role can be explained based on four theories. Physical training can be used as a marker of exercise intensity control.