I am not a doctor and I am not doing doctor "things" with my heart rate so accuracy really is not all that important.

if I have a major heart problem they measuring my heart rate in general is not going to provide useful data to me making the entire issue moot.

point stands. I can say as much as I want but I know in the end I would simply stop using it for the hassle of using a chest strap.

so any data that is "gotten" reliably is better than more accurate data that is never acquired because of annoyance/laziness/aggravation of the acquisition method :-)

I don't even really "need" it. my "geek" side wants it since strava is "capable" if adding it to its data stream. its the only reason I really want it anyway. so convenience is king :-)

I am probably over 450 pounds (I stood on a 450 pound capable scale and it gave me Errr so either it was broken or I exceeded 450 pounds)

simple GETTING on the bike for an hour is sufficient for my needs. to burn fat.

I have not seen a doctor in over 10 years probably won't for another 10 years. no insurance no money.

so I just cross my fingers and hope I do it right.