HRMs and heavy packs

JimHeid

I have been wondering if the weight that is entered on your HRM needs to be adjusted for a heavy pack you are carrying, so it can more accurately calculate calories burned. Does the HRM just use your actual heartrate, or does it need to know you are 30# heavier!? Anybody have thoughts on this?

tanyaMax

I would think it uses your heart rate. but i am not sure :0)

scarletleavy

That is an excellent question. While HRMs are calibrated using weight, age, etc, I think the added challenge of a heavy pack would show up in your heart rate. Maybe do a quick test run with the HRM? Some sort of run or walk without a pack and with a pack and compare the HRM results? I've never re-calibrated my HRM for any hikes, even with a heavy pack, the numbers were pretty high anyway.

GreenLifeGirl

This is actually a very good question. I can only assume that the increased weight will reflect in your heart rate, without needing to factor in the weight directly. Tried to google for some info on this...but didn't find any clear answer...

JimHeid

Maybe somebody needs to do a ""scientific" study like Scarlet suggested! Couldn't hurt. Anybody willing to hike the same path twice with and without pack?!

Flyntiggr

Interesting thought. I mean, they say that HRM are unreliable for weight lifting type activities, becuase your HR goes up, but not becaue of an increase in VO2, but because of an increase in pressure. Wondering how a pack would effect that. HMMMMM

GreenLifeGirl

So, Jim...if you give this a try, would be interested in knowing the difference with/without pack weight on your HRM.

JimHeid

I think I would not like climbing the same hill twice, with and then without pack. But in the name of "science" I might do it... I'll post results!