In part two of Jackie’s conversation with physiotherapist and Long Covid patient Robin McNelis (“Robin the Physio”), they dig into how heart rate monitors and wearables can support (or sabotage) pacing in LongCovid and ME/CFS. Robin shares both clinical and personal examples of using tech as a behaviour-change tool, not a dictator, and how it can help people eventually trust their bodies more, not less.
In This Episode:
When heart rate monitoring is helpful and when it becomes stressful and counterproductive
Robin’s concept of “counterintuitive” heart rate monitoring and why some people need to start with higher alert thresholds
Real-life examples of unexpected triggers (like showering, stairs, and bending) and how tiny tweaks made big differences
Using devices first to learn your boundaries, then turning down or off alerts to lean more on body awareness
How to decide if tech is right for you right now: What is it helping you change? Is it reducing crashes or just adding pressure?
Key Takeaways
Tech is optional: it’s the right tool for the right person, at the right time, in the right way.
The goal isn’t perfect data—it’s better awareness, steadier pacing, and fewer boom-and-bust crashes.
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**Disclaimer - you should not rely on any medical information contained in this Podcast and related materials in making medical, health-related or other decisions. Please consult a doctor or other health professional**
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