I've just bought a neat gadaget called a Polar Heart Rate Monitor M51
However despite reading the manual I am not quite sure what to use it for and it doesn't give me a formula to work out my MHR.
Can someone pls explain in laymans terms how to use your HR to make sure your training is working?
thanks
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thanks
Heart Rate Trainig for Compleat Idiots by John L Parker. Available from Amazon.co.uk
costs about 12.95 + P&P
It's nice and simple, gives easy to use charts and how to instructions. And has some good cartoons!
It can be ordered from: http://www.blackwell.co.uk
£14.95 inc P&P
Basic formula for working out your MHR:
205-(your age/2). But, and it's a big but, practically everyone I've read about on the forum seems to find their actual max is different, usually higher. So get the book, then as soon as you can do a stress test (the book explains how) to find out your personal max heart rate. Without that, the HRM is potentially very misleading as a training tool.
I have had a Polar M51 for over 2 years now and use it on every run. If you have questons about using it please feel free to ask; either on this forum or email me direct.
For men: 220 - (age) = MHR
less than 65% MHR = not working hard enough
65-75% MHR = fat loss
75-85% MHR = cardio fitness
85-95% MHR = elite athlete (anaerobic)
Gemini - I just got a M51 too - the handbook is truly awful, and the 'road map' quick guide is no better - but if you read it literally word by word, it does make sense!
http://www.fitnesscomplete.co.uk/chapters/ft/RHR.htm