Being aware of your HR can also help you choose which energy system to workout. Heart rate max (HRM) is calculated as 220 – age. Exercising approximately at 50-70% of HRM challenges the aerobic system, 70-85% challenges the glycolytic system and exercising above 85-90% challenges the anaerobic system. To receive the health benefits from an exercise, it is appropriate to exercise at 50-70% HRM. However, if you want to improve your fitness level it’s important to exercise at 70-85% HRM and above. Keep in mind that sometimes as you exercise you may feel fatigued, but your HR can always confirm how hard you are really working.
Armin Ghayyur is a Personal Trainer at Body & Soul