Pulse rate measurement from transmittance photoplethysmography in cycle ergometer test

Photoplethysmography (PPG) is a non-invasive optical technique that enables to quantify the arterial blood pulse rate derived from the cardiac pumping action. Although this technique is widely used in the medical practice as part of pulse oximeters, the signal corruption by motion artifacts is a primary limitation in the practical accuracy and applicability of current instruments to monitor pulse rate during intense exercise. Here, we report on the application of transmittance PPG throughout maximal exercise tests in cycle ergometer in male athletes. A specifically developed algorithm has been applied to obtain PPG pulse rates similar to the reference heart rates.