Using A Heart Rate Monitor | Lifestyle

by HenryCalhoun

There are some things to keep in mind when using a heart rate monitor during a workout. It is much easier to buy one than using it properly from the start when exercising. One thing that should never be forgotten is that the heart rate monitor helps you maintain a level of exercise that your heart can keep up with.

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.

There are different percentage boundaries for what you want to do in training, not simply choosing a number randomly. Starting with the lower percentage, you would want between 50% to 60% for daily exercise and a healthy heart. For aerobics and burning fat 60% to 70%, 70% to 80% is the range for endurance training and 80% to 90% is known as the anaerobic threshold zone which greatly benefits 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.

After that, start the monitor and then adjust accordingly if the readings a rather abnormal. If you get hyper readings or dead readings right after putting it on, relocate it to a better position. It would also be a good idea to have lots of space around as heart rate monitors have a tendency to pick up other's transmitters.

After using the heart rate monitor, proper care must be given to it. Although heart rate monitors are usually water resistant, place them in dry places with breathing rooms. Clean them with warm and soapy water, and then pat them dry with a soft towel. Alcohol should be avoided, and 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.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.

For a wide selection of quality heart rate monitors, stop by Bodytronics for good advice on polar heart monitor.