Adjusting maximum heart rate

littledove44

I know that I should have a scientific test done, but can't do that just yet.

So, according to various formulae my MHR is between 168 and 171.

Today riding I hit 174 and lived to tell the tale. Top of a very steep climb for me, and I think another 10m would have done me in, but I got there.

On the basis that I will be using the same heart rate monitor, should I adjust my zone calculations to a new MHR of say 175?

Thanks.

neeb

littledove44 wrote:

On the basis that I will be using the same heart rate monitor, should I adjust my zone calculations to a new MHR of say 175?

Thanks.

Yes, in the lack of any other information. Although there's a fair chance that your absolute maximum is still a little higher. You can ignore the formulae from now on, they are just a very approximate guideline and there is a lot of variation between individuals. You can test your maximum heart rate yourself (you can find various methods online, usually involving a gruelling interval or series of intervals). But don't rely on a single test, it can vary on different days and over longer spaces of time. If you are just starting out you might find that your HRmax comes down a bit as you get fitter and your heart gets bigger.

cyco2

Just to add that if you use this MHR you must also use the same monitor because who knows how accurate a particular monitor is.

dennisn

littledove44 wrote:

I know that I should have a scientific test done, but can't do that just yet.

So, according to various formulae my MHR is between 168 and 171.

Today riding I hit 174 and lived to tell the tale. Top of a very steep climb for me, and I think another 10m would have done me in, but I got there.

On the basis that I will be using the same heart rate monitor, should I adjust my zone calculations to a new MHR of say 175?

Thanks.

I would venture that if you were, in fact, "done in" then most likely that is your MHR. If it doesn't go any higher then obviously you're at max.