Is my polar HR monitor correct?

sandy2006

Hi, I have a question about my Heart rate. I have had the same polar HR monitor for over a year. Today I read it after my workout and my average HR was 140 but my maximum HR said 220. Now I have never saw it say that before. Could it be accurate? I am 5'5 230 lbs and 42 yrs old. I was exhausted but 220 seems a bit scary. What do you think? Thank you

h7463

Hi! Polar estimates max HR at 220 minus your age. For you, that would be about 178 max.
Of course, there is your body weight to consider, which is not part of this HR estimate, and with hard exercise, it is possible that you will hit 220 at some point.
I'm 5'5", 131 lbs, 51, and my max will occasionally hit 180, depending on training intensity, which is well above my suggested max number. The HR monitor is likely correct.
See a healthcare provider for a general fitness assessment and advise, if you are concerned!
Good luck!

sandy2006

Well I watched my watch today and at no time did my HR go over 160and yet at the end I checked it and it said my maximum HR was 202. It is not right.

SteveTries

When that happened with my Garmin 310XT for several consecutive workouts I did a bit of research that suggested the battery on the chest strap device was on the way out. I replaced it and it didn't happen again.