KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Garmin Malaysia has announced the availability of the Index Sleep Monitor, a new smart sleep band designed to provide a comprehensive overview of sleep patterns and recovery. The device is intended for wear on the upper arm and offers a battery life of up to 7 nights with continuous Pulse Ox tracking. It records several key metrics related to sleep and overall well-being, which are then used to calculate a personalized sleep score.
The Index Sleep Monitor is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Garmin Connect smartphone application. Data collected by the sleep band can be combined with metrics from a compatible Garmin smartwatch. This feature aims to provide a more complete picture of an individual’s recovery, particularly for users who may not wear their smartwatch during sleep or who wish to gain more detailed insights into their nocturnal physiological data.
Mr. Scoppen Lin, Assistant General Manager for Garmin Asia, commented on the addition of the Index Sleep Monitor to Garmin’s product line. He stated that the device is intended to offer in-depth sleep insights, contributing to a more complete understanding of fitness and recovery.
Sleep and Recovery Metrics Tracked
The Index Sleep Monitor is equipped to track a range of sleep and recovery metrics throughout the night. These data points are then viewable within the Garmin Connect platform, allowing users to monitor their sleep quality and physiological responses. The tracked metrics include:
- Sleep Score: Each morning, users receive a score (0-100) that summarizes their previous night’s sleep. This score is calculated based on factors such as sleep duration, stress levels during sleep, and the time spent in different sleep stages.
- Sleep Stages: The device identifies and tracks light, deep, and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stages, indicating when these occur during the sleep cycle. This allows users to visualize the architecture of their sleep.
- HRV Status (Heart Rate Variability): The Index Sleep Monitor measures and displays the average Heart Rate Variability from the previous night. HRV is the variation in the time between successive heartbeats, and its status (balanced, unbalanced, low, or poor) can provide insights into the body’s autonomic nervous system activity, often correlated with recovery and stress levels. After several nights of use, the device establishes a personal baseline for HRV, which can help in understanding an individual’s recovery state and general wellness.
- Pulse Ox: The device tracks blood oxygen saturation levels during sleep. This metric, also known as SpO2, can provide information about respiratory function during rest.
- Breathing Variations: In conjunction with Pulse Ox data, the monitor tracks shifts in breathing patterns throughout the night. This feature aims to help users identify potential irregularities in their breathing during sleep.
- Respiration Rate: The device continuously monitors and displays respiration rates (breaths per minute) throughout the sleep period.
- Skin Temperature: The Index Sleep Monitor tracks changes in skin temperature. Variations in skin temperature can be influenced by recent physical activity, the sleeping environment, and may also be indicative of physiological changes, including potential illness.
- Women’s Health Tracking: By utilizing skin temperature data, the device offers enhanced insights for women’s health. This includes potentially improved period predictions and estimates of past ovulation. Users can also log their menstrual cycle or pregnancy within the Garmin Connect app, which provides access to educational resources on exercise and nutrition relevant to these phases.
- Body Battery Energy Monitoring: This feature provides an estimation of the body’s energy reserves. Users can see if their ‘Body Battery’ is charged or if more rest is required. When combined with data from a compatible Garmin smartwatch worn during waking hours, it can offer a more continuous picture of energy levels throughout the day and night.
- Stress Tracking: The device analyzes physiological data during sleep to indicate whether the night’s sleep was calm, balanced, or characterized by higher stress levels.
Smart Wake Alarm and Design
The Index Sleep Monitor also incorporates a smart wake alarm feature. This function is designed to identify lighter sleep stages within a pre-selected wake-up window. By initiating a gentle vibration during these lighter stages, the alarm aims to wake users more gradually, potentially contributing to a more refreshed feeling upon waking compared to being abruptly awakened from deep sleep.
The sleep band is available in two sizes: S-M and L-XL, to accommodate different arm sizes for comfort during wear. The design prioritizes ease of cleaning; the electronic module can be removed, and the fabric band is machine washable on a gentle cycle.
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The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor has a suggested retail price of RM739 in Malaysia. It is available for purchase through Garmin’s official Malaysian website, Garmin Brand Stores, and major e-commerce platforms including Shopee and Lazada. The device can also be found at various authorized retailers. Further information regarding the Index Sleep Monitor’s features can be accessed on the Garmin Malaysia website.
