The Maximum Heart Rate Myth

The fitness industry is unfortunately "stuck" on the concept of using age to determine max heart rate; you'll find that the formula of 220-age = max heart rate is ubiquitous.  Justs about every cardio machine and every heart rate monitor that asks you for your age is using that formula to determine your maximum heart rate, and to then "prescribe" training zones based on that number.

You're no better off than if you closed your eyes and threw a dart at the maximum heart rate chart.

Studies have shown that maximum heart rate does not correlate well with age, and that it doesn't necessarily decline by one beat on your birthday every year.  That being said, a 70-year old person most likely will not be able to achieve the same peak heart rate that she could achieve when she was younger.  There are a variety of reasons for this, not the least of which is simple unwillingness to push to that level of intensity out of fear and discomfort.  Nevertheless, as long as one maintains fitness, MHR shouldn't decline by much with age.

For more information on MHR and heart rate zone training, join us for the Lactate Threshold Field Test on indoor cycling bikes on Tuesday, March 16, 5:30-7 pm.  This information and more will be presented, along with a ride to determine your threshold.