Faster #7 - Heart Rate Monitors

Published 11 March 08 09:08 PM | ericgu

Lots of the cool guys have heart rate monitors. Should you get one?

I'm going to assume that you are doing a set of structured workouts.

So, if you're doing that, you need to set your training zones. You can do that by taking a percentage that you determine use 220-age or one of the other formulas, and then train based on that.

But there are a few problems with that. First of all, none of the formulas to determine max hr are of much use, as there are wide variances of maximum heart rate across the population.

But even if that formula does work for you, it's a poor way to set ranges.

Basically, one of your goals is to push your anaerobic threshold to a higher percentage of your maximum heart rate. To do this, you may need to work out near your anaerobic threshold.

The problem is that that threshold is a moving target. A range set based on a maximum will likely be too high when you are untrained, and too low when you are well trained.

The right way to set ranges is to use a field test, like the Carmichael one. That will gve you better ranges, and a good way to track your progress over time.

The other big benefit of heart rate monitors is to get you to slow down. Most riders spend too much time working out right around their anaerobic threshold, which is bad.

Summary

Heart rate monitors are a great tool. Unfortunately, they can be a bit pricey, especially the ones that can upload your data to a computer.

 

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Comments

# Mark W said on March 12, 2008 10:46 AM:

There seem to be 2 sets of training zones: 1 set that is based on max HR (read the Carmichael book) is probably easier for beginners to get started. Another set (read Friel) is based on Anaerobic threshold which I think is more accurate but it presumes you know where your AT is. I totally agree that training in zones get me to slow down. I used to only know one effort and does not have an endurance base. Now in my 2nd year of structured training I can definitely ride longer and seems to be slightly faster. I would recommend buying a cheap HRM like this one and save your money for the next quantum jump that is a power meter. Mark W in Vancouver

# ericgu said on March 12, 2008 12:46 PM:

Mark,

The Carmichael book that I have - which I think is "the ultimate ride" - uses zones based not on HR but on their field test.

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