Principles of Heart Rate Training

Education around heart rate training has grown enormously over the last few years, however, many people still seem to be confused by the issue. Here are a few of the most important points summarised.

• As your intensity increases, so does your heart rate.
• Training to heart rate revolves around exercising at an intensity (heart rate) that is specific to your goals.
• Scientific evidence indicates that the body responds differently to varying levels of intensity.
• At low intensities, your body's main source of fuel is stored fats.
• At high intensities, the main fuel source is carbohydrates.
• It is generally accepted that intensity levels (Training Zones) can be broken into four main categorites - Moderate Exercise / Weight Management / Improved Fitness / Performance Enhancement.
• These zones are calculated as a percentage of one's maximum heart rate.

• By exercising in the training zone specific to your goals you are able to maximise your training timew, therefore producing faster results without wasting time or energy.
• To obtain your maximum heart rate, simply subtract your age from 220 - Eg. A 35 year old would have a maximum heart rate of 185.
• To ensure that you achieve your fitness goals, ask one of our trained consultants on advice on what piece of fitness equipment will best suit your training needs.
• Our consultants have had years of training experience and can offer useful tips on reaching your goals using heart rate monitors.