Monday, August 17, 2009

How To Use Heart Rate Monitors

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.

In order to determine that, the first thing you have to do is calculate what your maximum heart rate, also known as MRH, and the desired targeted heart rate. This is done by following using a formula and the first thing you need to have is the difference between the number 220 and your actual age. The result is then converted into a percentage that represents the lower part of the range. After that you multiply the result with another number to get the higher percentage. Those two results are then the heart rate you should have during 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.

With regard to the percentages, you do not merely choose a number. The percentages are based on training boundaries. The 50%-60% range is for a healthy heart, and it is considered good for your daily exercise. The 60%-70% range is for aerobics and for burning fats, while the 70%-80% range is for endurance training. The 80-90% range is called the anaerobic threshold zone, which can greatly enhance cardiovascular fitness.

Now that you have been able to calculate your targeted heart rates, it is time to wear your heart rate monitors. Dampen the back of the chest transmitter so that it would fit snugly on the skin where it will come in contact. Adjust it accordingly, but don't take deep breaths. Women would find it easier to put on the heart rate monitor if it were placed under the bra and breasts.

When that is all done, then the heart rate monitor can be started and if necessary, adjusted. It only needs to be adjusted if it is giving strange readings. If the readings are hyper or dead after putting it on, then the device has to be put someplace else and into a better position. Also keep your distance from others since the transmitters of the heart rate monitor often are so sensitive that they pick up other transmitters.

Your heart monitor will require minimal care after using. Warm soapy water is all that is needed to clean them. Simply dry them with a soft towel after washing and never use alcohol to clean them. Generally they are water resistant but it is better to keep them in a dry place with a little breathing room. Also, don't forget to replace the batteries when needed.

With the right heart rate calculations, along with proper use and proper care, heart rate monitors will be great companions in healthy workouts. Working out with the right tools and knowledge is the best way to achieve a heart-friendly life.

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