Monday, September 21, 2009

Using A Heart Rate Monitor

By Henry Calhoun

Using a heart rate monitor isn't as simple as buying one and using it instantly during workouts. One must keep a few things in mind, and the most important reminder in the use of heart rate monitors is to know the level of workout that your heart can sustain.

To find this out, you must be able to calculate your maximum heart rate or MRH, and the targeted heart rate that you wish to work on. This can be done by following a certain formula. First, you have to get the difference between 220 and your age. After getting the result, multiply that difference to a certain percentage that would serve as the lower end in your exercise range. Multiply the difference of 220 and your age again with another percentage, only this time, that percentage would be the higher end. The two products should now serve as your heart rate in your training.

To further illustrate this formula, take a 25 year old person as an example. The difference of 220 and 25 is 195. If 195 were multiplied with 65%, you would get 126.75, or 127. Multiply 195 again with 80%, you would arrive at 156. Therefore, the heart rate during training must be 127 to 156 beats per minute.

In regards to the percentages, not just any random number is chosen. These percentages used are based upon training boundaries. The first range of 50% - 60% is to maintain a healthy heart and is what can be considered good for daily exercises. The second range of 60% - 70% is for aerobics or for fat burning, and the 70% - 80% range is considered necessary for any endurance training. Finally, the 80 - 90% range, also known as the anaerobic threshold zone, is used to greatly improve cardiovascular fitness.

It is now time to wear your heart rate monitor, since your targeted heart rate has been determined. To make it fit tightly where it comes into contact with your skin, dampen the back of the transmitter and without taking deep breaths adjust it. The monitor, on women, has been found to be more comfortable when worn under the bra or breasts.

Now it is time to turn on your heart rate monitor. If you should find abnormal or hyper or dead reading after starting it try putting it in another position. Keep in mind also that the monitors tend to easily pick up other transmitters.

A heart rate monitor also requires that it be taken care of properly. Most of these devices are water resistant, but nonetheless they should be placed in dry places with enough room around them. They can be cleaned with warm water and soap and then dried of with a soft towel. No alcohol should be used and batteries need to be replaced every now and then.

Now you are on your way to achieve a heart friendly life and in your heart monitor you will find a welcome companion. With the correct calculations and care, plus knowledge and right tools, then you're on your way.

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