HRM Questions

sara1077

I am new to using a HRM. Got my Polar 4T4 last week!

1. Are the calories considered pretty accurate? I did put in my weight, height, age, etc. It seems a tad high compared to MFP.

2. When I run, I have noticed my HR is usually outside the recomended range. I'm talking like 180-190BPM. My HR monitor tells me to keep it in the 118 - 155 BPM range. Is dangerous or counterproductive to be so far out of my range? I calcluated my Maximum Heart rate (220 - 39yrs) as 181BPM. I'm usually at that or above it when I run. I'm thinking it is not dangrous since I've been a jogger for awhile (just unfortunatly not quite often enough). I just never knew my HR was so high. Probably why I have a love/hate relationship with running. I am pretty uncomfortable! I'm really not running that fast though ... about 11 minute mile. Of course, I am obviously overweight (175 on my 5'5 frame) but again, this level of exertsion is not new per se (just more frequent as I try to get more fit!)

Thanks!

sara1077

Anyone??

mfpcopine

I am new to using a HRM. Got my Polar 4T4 last week!

1. Are the calories considered pretty accurate? I did put in my weight, height, age, etc. It seems a tad high compared to MFP.

2. When I run, I have noticed my HR is usually outside the recomended range. I'm talking like 180-190BPM. My HR monitor tells me to keep it in the 118 - 155 BPM range. Is dangerous or counterproductive to be so far out of my range? I calcluated my Maximum Heart rate (220 - 39yrs) as 181BPM. I'm usually at that or above it when I run. I'm thinking it is not dangrous since I've been a jogger for awhile (just unfortunatly not quite often enough). I just never knew my HR was so high. Probably why I have a love/hate relationship with running. I am pretty uncomfortable! I'm really not running that fast though ... about 11 minute mile. Of course, I am obviously overweight (175 on my 5'5 frame) but again, this level of exertsion is not new per se (just more frequent as I try to get more fit!)

Thanks!

As I've said many times before, I've had Polar HRMs for at least 20 years. I never pay any attention to the calorie burn estimates provided by the HRM or any other device. Even though it purportedly factors in my sex, age, height, weight, it's not a direct measure of my physiology. The devices use algorithms derived from people in studies or "average populations" and average weight ranges usually don't apply to me and not because I think I should weigh more. I usually should weigh less than the recommended healthy weight.

If I create a sufficient calorie deficit through diet, I'll lose weight. Exercise may help a bit, but it's never determinative. I've learned to stop sweating things that can't be calculated accurately and don't matter. Exercise for general health matters. Exercise for weight loss for me is desirable but not crucial.

My heart rate is always way over the normal range. -- that's another example of why I don't over-rely on these gadgets. I was alarmed, and not wanting to hurt myself I saw the doctor and had a stress test. My heart rate was normal for me.

If you're concerned, don't assume you're healthy, see a doctor.

sleibo87

I have the same one. Seems to be pretty accurate for me. MFP is usually only off maybe 20 points or so.

When I run or do insanity my heart rate is usually in the 180 range too and never hurt me. Its more of a risk for
people who have heart problems. I notice when i get above 184 I feel winded so I try to slow down a little. I try to stick between 130-170 but I mean its INSANITY lol you are killing it. Just listen to your body and don't push to hard if your a beginner.

Read this

• As a general guide, if you are new to exercise, you should be working at 50-65% of your maximum heart rate. As you progress to an intermediate level, bump it up to 60-75%, then to 70-85% at the highest fitness levels.

• If you have vascular disease and are on prescribed medications that lower your heart rate, the above percentages will not apply and you should consult your physician for guidance.

• It is possible to exceed the upper limit of your zone without any ill effects, as long as you do not have coronary artery disease or are at risk for a heart attack. What it may do, though, is leave you with a musculoskeletal injury.

• Exercising above 85% of your target heart rate could bring you sore joints and muscles. It puts you at risk for overtraining, which may discourage you from exercising, which is altogether unproductive. I recommend sticking within your target heart rate zone.

carpar1

I am on my 2nd FT4, have been using over 3 years and find it to be accurate. I'm 5'5" 140 and stay between 115-155 bpm.