HR Monitor Question

[lis1]

I just bought an A3 Polar HR monitor. I used it for the 1st time during spinning class and loved it.
2 Questions:
1. A few times, I went up over the recommended max HR (it calculates it for you using your birthday). Is this ok?

2. I was usually in my upper HR range for the majority of the class. Is it more effective to be in this range, or a moderate range, for losing weight?
I know spinning is (for me anyway) a more intense cardio than aerobics.

Thanks

 

[lynnesq2]

HI: I sort of have the same question, although I don't have a heart rate monitor. sorry I'm not answering your question, but I'm also looking for info on this topic.
What happens if your heart rate is consistently above the 85% mark (when you check it on the chart in Cathe's videos)? I'm 37 and have been working out since I was a teenager, so I thought i was in shape!
I've heard that if you are working way above your fat-burning zone, that you're not burning fat. Does anyone know if this is true? Should I worry that my heart rate is almost always above the 85% mark?
Sorry I didn't answer your question, but if anyone can provide any info on this subject, I'd appreciate it!!
Lynne

 

[Debra]

The standard formula, 220-age, is a rough estimate of your max heart rate. Females should use 226 for a starter, but the formula is especially poor for fit, past 30 exercisers. The Karvonen formula is better as it uses your resting heart rate too. Fitnesstutor.com has a heart rate zone calculator that uses both formulas. Use your age-6 if female.

Just to complicate things, your max hr changes with different activities. Running being at the high end, rowing & swimming being lower because they're non-weight bearing & engage smaller muscles. Cycling is in between.

As your intensity increases, you burn more glycogen (sugar) & less fat for fuel. When you're truly anaerobic, you're just burning sugar which is why you can't sprint for long. But remember that you're burning more calories at a higher intensity & ultimately the total calorie burn is what matters. Assuming you're fit, you want to mix up your workouts. Some high intensity pushing into anaerobic & some moderate intensity fat burners. They're both good for the heart & your metabolism. You also train your body to use more fat & less glycogen for fuel by training moderately.

Debra