Detecting Exercise Induced Stress using the Photoplethysmogram

The effect of exercise on the cardiovascular system has been studied extensively using a wide range of physiological sensors. Athletes now commonly use EKG-based monitors to ascertain heart rate, but these devices cannot directly monitor the level of physical stress. We hypothesize that the low frequency spindle waves seen in the photoplethysmographs (PPG) of exercising individuals may be useful for noninvasively detecting hemodynamic stressors...