We are pleased to announce that on March 4, 2025, an updated Rich Text Editor will be introduced in the MyFitnessPal Community. To learn more about the upcoming changes, please click here. We look forward to sharing this new feature with you!

Is average hr of 85% too high?

jfrankic
jfrankic Posts: 747 Member
edited December 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
When doing cardio (usually turbo jam), I push myself as hard as I possibly can the entire time, after warming up. My average heart rate the last time was 85%. I was above my "zone" 65% of the time, meaning my hr was above the cardio zone limit of 158.

So my question: should I NOT push myself like that? Do I need to stay around 70%? My husband keeps telling me I shouldn't push it like I do. Exercise adrenaline is like my drug though. I feel like I'm cheating if I'm not at the point I feel like I could lose my lunch.

I do cardio usually 4-5x per week for 45 mins and strength/toning with bands 2x. Usually one rest day a week, sometimes two. Not sure if any of that makes a difference.

(Edited for fat thumb typos!!)

Replies

  • Music4Hym777
    Music4Hym777 Posts: 71 Member
    It really depends on you...heart rates can vary. I am really weird in that my heart rate will go about 100% sometimes upwards of 125% if I am doing HIIT. I think that 85% is fine unless you feel funky, but I would check with a doctor too if you are concerned.
  • jfrankic
    jfrankic Posts: 747 Member
    No, I have no concerns. I feel great! I have maxed at 195 bpm when doing intervals. I'm never weak or woozy. I'm healthy and fitter than I have been in years, so I enjoy seeing how far and hard I can go. Thanks for the input! I just wanted some other's thoughts, as my hubs and i have this conversation pretty regularly.
  • chojolitos
    chojolitos Posts: 100
    well , I think depends how old are t you to reach your target:):heart:
  • jfrankic
    jfrankic Posts: 747 Member
    I'm 33.
  • Leanbck
    Leanbck Posts: 4
    Do u lift? Mybe u should consider that, just pointing that out brah.
  • Music4Hym777
    Music4Hym777 Posts: 71 Member
    Maxing it out at 195 at 33 should be okay (again not a doctor). At 25 I would routinely go up to 215-225 during intervals. I think that the 60% is not the best way to go and working closer to 80% all the time during cardio is actually a better tactic to take.
  • moran1917
    moran1917 Posts: 1,133 Member
    For me it is about how I feel. I like to keep my heart rate at about 75% which for me is around 155. When running I am usually between 155-165 and that feels ok. But if I get into the 170's I start to feel like I am going to have a heart attack or something. I get a bit dizzy, weak, and it is super hard to keep going. I can handle it for about 20 minutes and then for me, I must lower my heart rate. So pay attention to your body, to how you feel. If you feel good, then all is well...if you don't lower your rate a bit.
This discussion has been closed.

Categories