Heart Rate monitor question

[eminenz2]

DH bought me a heart rate monitor for Xmas. It's a really nice one - a Polar M32, I think.

Anyway, you can enter your weight, age and gender and it will calculate your target heart rate when you're working out, as well as minutes spent in your aerobic zone, and the calories spent.

The problem is, the monitor estimates the top range of my heartrate should be only 157, and the lowest 139. However, when I was doing "Step Blast" two days ago, the monitor kept flashing at me because my average heart rate seemed to be 163 or thereabouts. And at that rate, I didn't even really feel like I was exerting myself that badly. I tried to take it easier, but it seemed like the only thing that would get my heart rate down was walking around! As soon as I started back up again, so did my heart rate.

I only did the first three sections - no blasts or challenges. According to the monitor, I spent only 12 minutes of a 45 minute workout in my target range. granted, I haven't exactly been working out as much as a should, but what gives?

Opinions, similar experiences, and info much appreciated!

Susan L.G.

 

[nancy324]

You may be in much better shape than the HRM assumes. You can set the range manually so that your highest is greater than 157. You may need to measure your true range by a more precise method, which involves taking your resting pulse when you first get up in the morning, then use a website such as http://www.sarkproducts.com/targetzonecalculator.htm

I find that I'm comfortable at the heart rate my monitor says is the highest I should go, and I sometimes exceed it, but not as much as you do.

 

[eminenz2]

Thanks for the info!

Susan L.G.

 

[jtlane25]

I had the same thing.... I went to a cardiologist and had my heart checked out and over all examined because I was concerned about a heart attack. Call me parinoid. I come from a family with heart disease and my Dad had a heart attack along w/ my grandfather. Mom has high blood pressure and so do sisters. SO, It was a general check up to make sure all the plumbing was working. This is what the doctor told me. Regardless of what the monitor says....if you feel fine you are doing fine. It's when your heart sends signals of discomfort and overexertion is when you should slow down. Meaning....if you are panting too heavily and dying for a break....you are pushing too hard. So, listen to your body. But, I would suggest, if you feel it's bothering you so much...,as it did me, consider seeing a doctor.

Had to share...

 

[eminenz2]

Thank you for your concern. I was just confused because I felt like I was "just barely" working hard enough, but apparently I was way over where I should have been, but I still felt OK.

I ride my horse vigorously about five or six times a week in addition to my workouts, so maybe I'm a little fitter than someone who totally goes off their workouts and then returns.

Thanks again!

Susan L.G.