How to set up heart rate notifications on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

The watch can tell you when your heart rate is unusually high or low, and when it sees signs of an irregular rhythm. High and low heart rate notifications work on Apple Watch Series 1 or later, for people aged 13 and over.

Step by step

1. Open the Watch app on the iPhone

   Tap the My Watch tab at the bottom.

   Done

2. Tap Heart

   It is in the list of apps.

   Done

3. Tap High Heart Rate and choose a value

   The value is in beats per minute. The watch notifies you when your heart rate stays above it.

   Done

4. Tap Low Heart Rate and choose a value

   The watch notifies you when your heart rate stays below it.

   Done

5. Set up irregular rhythm notifications

   Open the Health app on the iPhone and tap Browse, Heart, Irregular Rhythm Notifications. Tap Set Up and follow the instructions.

   Done

Good to know

Irregular rhythm notifications are not meant for people under 22 or for people who have already been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. They are only available in some countries.

To switch irregular rhythm notifications off later: Watch app, My Watch, Heart, Irregular Rhythm.

A notification is a hint, not a diagnosis. If you get one and feel unwell, or it happens repeatedly, speak to a doctor.

To look closer at the rhythm yourself: how to take an ECG on an Apple Watch.

In short: Watch app, My Watch, Heart, High Heart Rate and Low Heart Rate.