How much should I worry about heart rate?

dewsmom78
dewsmom78 Posts: 498 Member
edited January 22 in Fitness and Exercise
I have an FT4 HRM. According to my age (35), my max heart rate is 185. My current RHR is 59. I started running a month ago, and my HR usually jumps to the 150-160 range, where is sustains for the first mile or so, seems like the 2nd mile it climbs to the 170's. My question is, right now I get a little concerned when I see it hit 175 so I slow down or walk a bit to lower it. It is going to hurt any to keep it in the 170's? This would be about 95% of my max heart rate.

(I should mention I don't feel like I'm dying when it's in the 170's, but I definitely have to concentrate on my breathing).

Replies

  • timeasterday
    timeasterday Posts: 1,368 Member
    It won't hurt to do that occasionally but I wouldn't want to stay in that zone a majority of the time. You might be going too fast.
  • n_unocero
    n_unocero Posts: 445 Member
    I'm the same way. When I'm jogging, my HR gets up at least into the 160's unless I purposely go extra slow to keep it down. I don't feel like I'm dying either. I would say it's ok, but don't do it EVERY DAY.
  • dewsmom78
    dewsmom78 Posts: 498 Member
    Ok thanks. I generally do slow down to a walk for a few minutes to lower it. I am also only running about 2-3 times per week.
  • disasterman
    disasterman Posts: 746 Member
    I would say ask a doctor instead of a bunch of strangers on an internet message board where you're going to get every possible answer mostly based on uninformed opinions. If you get checked out, then you won't have to worry at all.
  • scottb81
    scottb81 Posts: 2,538 Member
    Are you running to lose weight?
    Are you running for general health?
    Are you running to get better at running?

    The answer makes a difference. Assuming no health issues. A = It doesn't matter. B = It doesn't matter. C = It depends on the purpose of the run.
  • dewsmom78
    dewsmom78 Posts: 498 Member
    Are you running to lose weight?
    Are you running for general health?
    Are you running to get better at running?

    The answer makes a difference. Assuming no health issues. A = It doesn't matter. B = It doesn't matter. C = It depends on the purpose of the run.

    Yes, running to lose weight and get healthy. I've never been a runner before (ex-smoker). Trying my first 5k in a few weeks.
  • scottb81
    scottb81 Posts: 2,538 Member
    For best improvement in running most of your training should be below 80% max heart rate. Assuming 185 is your max, you should keep your heartrate below 148 most of the time.

    When you are first starting out this may be difficult. So, train at an easy effort level where breathing is not difficult.

    You will still be able to race at a much higher and faster effort level.
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