Should I be worried?

yiffanarff

So I recently got a HRM, which I'm super excited about. I love that I'm able to track my workouts and my calories burned more accurately. However, I'm a little concerned, because during my run yesterday my heart rate went up to 199. During my P90X workouts it's gotten into the 190s as well. It comes down pretty quickly when I back off, and I don't feel light headed or anything. During my run yesterday, because I haven't run for a while I really didn't even feel like I was pushing myself that hard. So should I be concerned about this?

In case it's relevant, I'm 27, 135 pounds, and have a pretty active lifestyle. Also, I don't drink any caffeine- I've heard that can affect HRM readings.

Thanks for the help!

Shweedog

Your maximum HR is 220 minus your age. Target HR should be 70-85% of your maximum HR.

ilsie99

Your maximum HR is 220 minus your age. Target HR should be 70-85% of your maximum HR.

This is a very general equation that's often inaccurate. If you are worried, please go see your medical provider and he or she can do a controlled stress test that will tell you what your max heart rate is.

TruckinThePoundsOff

190's are a little high, so yeah I would ask your doctor about that. You should be around 140-150 if I am not mistaken. That is a safe goal to be at.

yiffanarff

I know, that's why I'm wondering if I should be concerned. 199 is obviously way higher than that number would be, but I have a hard time keeping in my max heart rate zone, even when I feel like I'm not working that hard. Should I trust what it's telling me, or how my body feels while working out?

ETA: to the new respondents, thanks. I will definitely ask my doctor about it.

jwintonyk

During many of my workouts my HRM says I'm working up in the 190s as well. Myself, I'm not concerned b/c I know my body and I feel good (I'm 29 and sit about 200lbs). If you're worried I'd definitely suggest seeing a medical professional. Good luck!

jinxypinxy

You should probably talk to your doctor, but... I'm 21 and around 135 lbs too. I've had my heart rate tested before, and mine gets to 200-208. The doctor said that it was absolutely fine and that's just the way I am. That said, if my heart rate is that high I'm not working out "optimally" (like someone else said, your ideal heart rate is 70-80% of your max). (I also apparently am below average with my lungs' ability to exchange oxygen, so my heart might be pumping harder to get more oxygen around my body. My mum's the same way.)