June 28, 2010

Peak Heart Rate Estimation

An article in the Chicago Tribune points out that the most popular method for estimating maximal or peak heart rate is not accurate for women. It sights a study conducted at Northwestern University that found 206 - (0.88 x age) to be more appropriate for women. 

Actually, the standard equation used to predict maximal heart rate, 220 - age, isn't very accurate for women or men. In fact, it was developed more from a hunch rather than raw data and was never intended for such widespread use. It's popularity is based on simplicity rather than legitimacy. A 2007 study determined 207 - (0.70 x age) to be more accurate and another study came up with 208 - (0.70 x age). Both equations are for men and women. But, not many people can do that much math in their head so the old standard equation of 220 - age remains and likely always will.

Personally, I don't monitor my exercise intensity with heart rate and even if I did would it really matter. 220 - age gives me a peak heart rate of 168 while the more accurate equations give me 171. A difference of three beats per minute? No, thanks. I'll continue to run based on how I feel and leave heart rate monitoring to the highly trained, competitive runners and the anal retentive, type A personality want-to-be's. 

4 comments:

YPR said...

I've always gone with the less well known rate consisting of Dr. Peppers consumed within last 24 hours times age minus number of roads a man must walk down before you call him a man.

Ben said...

192, does that sound right? I don't think I've ever monitored my heart rate anyway. My usual gauges are fatigue and muscle soreness the next morning.

Jake said...

Ben - 192 would be your peak heart rate and it's recommended that people exercise at 70-90% of that. There's formula that takes into account resting heart rate as well if you're interested but I'm with you, I gauge my exercise level based on how I feel; tired, really tired, or one notch away from passing out tired.

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