Stop HRM after workout or when HR returns to resting state?

mauridaher

I realize this may be a stupid question, but just to be sure, I'm supposed to stop my heart rate monitor when my heart rate goes back to resting state right?

That way, I end up burning +50-80 calories more than usual, so I was wondering if it was "cheating" in any way

SunKissed1989

Towards the end of my workout, I'm cooling down, so my heart rate is gradually decreasing anyway. I usually finish on the treadmill at an easy walking pace which takes me down to my resting rate anyway.

If it is in 'workout' range, however, I tend to wait until it goes into resting rate…only for a few seconds to a minute at the most.

I wouldn't consider it cheating anyway - depending on your workout, your body will continue to burn calories after your workout (heard this quite a lot, esp. in strength training forums…one of the trainers at my gym told me that as well).