EXERCISE HELP

First see a doc to make sure there are no actual heart issues. Then, until you build a strong aerobic base, work at a "conversational" intensity -- meaning you are still able to talk in complete sentences. No gasping for air in between words. As you get stronger, you'll be able to work harder at that same intensity.

In order to know your target heart rate, I would need more information. Do you have any health issues that would impact your heart rate? Are you on any medications (blood pressure, asthma, allergy, etc.) that would impact your heart rate? How old are you? What is your family history with regard to heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, etc.? I'm actually a Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist, which allows me to work with people who have those issues going on (standard personal training certifications are only for working with apparently healthy individuals), so I wouldn't give a recommendation for heart rate without knowing those things. I will tell you however, that it is not uncommon for those who are just starting a fitness program to have a very high heart rate (and blood pressure) while exercising and the heart rate response to exercise tends to be lower after achieving a higher fitness level, so the heart rate you are seeing now is probably higher than you want but after exercising for a few months, you will get a lower heart rate from doing the same level of activity. If you want me to help you with figuring a target heart range and planning your exercise, PM me.