If you've ever reached out to Fitabase about blinding participants to data on their wearables, you've heard us go down the list of workarounds: covering displays with tape and disabling notifications have been typical go-tos. Garmin's CIRQA Smart Band, announced earlier this month, removes the display altogether. It is not the only screen-free wearable around, but it is one that we're excited to support.
The CIRQA devices sits inside Garmin's ecosystem right alongside the devices you already use and love for research. Datasets largely match what exists across devices like the vivosmart and Venu: wrist-base heart rate, pulse ox, sleep stages, HRV, and nap detection, among others. The device also includes a skin temperature sensor that matches the functionality found in Garmin's higher-priced models.
Other questions you might have about the CIRQA device:
How long does the Garmin CIRQA battery last?
As with other Garmin devices, the CIRQA can last up to 10 days per charge. We recommend encouraging participants to sync once a day to keep high-resolution data flowing into the Fitabase platform. Participants can sync by simply opening the Garmin Connect app or the Fitabase Engage app if you're using the SDK to gather data.
Where can the Garmin CIRQA be worn?
CIRQA can be worn on the wrist, but also on the upper arm using a separate accessory band. Some participants consider upper-arm placement more comfortable while sleeping, which may make compliance more likely. Data types such as HRV and respiration are measured during sleep, and proper fit is crucial for the accuracy of these datasets.
Can you get raw beat-to-beat interval data from the Garmin CIRQA?
Yes! If you're curious about beat-to-beat intervals (HRV), Fitabase can help you pull them using the Garmin SDK. You'll have participants download the Fitabase Engage app and sync through it instead of the Garmin Connect app. For more on our SDK integration, please see this article.
How do you combine CIRQA data with participant self-report?
Fitabase Engage, our newest product offering, can send surveys to participants' compatible Garmin smartwatches and their phones via the Fitabase Engage app. Surveys sent to participants who wear the Garmin CIRQA devices would need to be delivered to the mobile app since the device itself is screenless. If you're interested in sending messages or EMA surveys directly to a participant's watch, you can find more information here.
If you're interested in learning more about CIRQA or research price bulk order discounts, please reach out to us at hello@fitabase.com.