Saturday, September 18, 2010

Heart Rate Question

Since I have increased my speed while running I have been diligent in checking my heart rate after each speed interval. After most intervals,I am usually at or close to the 80% maximum heart rate. During my 5 minute intervals this week, I have been above 80% after each run. I can quickly recover once I start my walking interval.

Is it safe to be above the 80% maximum HR? If so, for how long?
Is this a sign that I am trying to push up my speed too soon? Should I back off the speed for an interval if I am over 80%?

I never checked my heart rate when I ran my other 5ks. Maybe it was above 80% then too. I am just not sure. I really want to make my goal of running a 5k in under 40mins but that isn't something I want to do too soon if it can cause problems. I hope to be running the rest of my life and if it takes to reach my under 40mins goal, so be it. If being over the 80% is okay, I want to keep pushing myself.


I hope my questions make sense to you all and someone can help me out.  Thanks- Jess

2 comments:

  1. Hey Jess, I'm interested in what others say to your question, too. I did find a chart that seems to relate to optimal heart rates at http://www.frontrower.com/aerobic_heart_rate_chart.htm which may help. Have a great weekend.

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  2. I don't have personal experience with what you're asking, but I did find this article...maybe it's helpful?

    http://www.easy-weightloss-tips.com/target-heart-rate.html

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