How to Tell If Your Heart Rate is Healthy During A Workout
How to Tell If Your Heart Rate is Healthy During A Workout
27 June 2023
Maintaining a healthy heart rate during a workout is essential for achieving optimal fitness and avoiding potential health risks. While exercising, your heart rate increases, and keeping it within a healthy range is necessary to prevent overexertion and possible injury. In this article, we will explore what a healthy heart rate during a workout is and how to measure it.
Firstly, what is heart rate? Your heart rate is counted, a number of times, heart beats per minute (bpm). It measures how hard your heart is pumping blood to the rest of your body. A healthy resting heart rate typically falls between 60 and 100 bpm. However, your heart rate will increase during exercise, which is normal.
The ideal heart rate during exercise depends on factors such as age, fitness level, and the type of exercise you do. A general rule of thumb is to aim for a heart rate between 50% to 85% of your maximum heart rate during exercise. Your maximum heart rate is the maximum number of beats your heart can handle in one minute. To calculate your maximum heart rate, subtract your age from 220. For example, if you’re 30, your maximum heart rate would be 190 bpm (220 - 30).
So, what does a healthy heart rate during a workout look like? As previously mentioned, it depends on various factors, but here are some general guidelines:
- For low-intensity exercises such as walking or yoga, aim for a heart rate between 50% to 70% of your maximum heart rate. This range is ideal for beginners or those recovering from an injury.
- For moderate-intensity exercises such as cycling or jogging, aim for a heart rate between 70% to 80% of your maximum heart rate. This range is ideal for improving overall fitness and burning calories.
- For high-intensity exercises such as HIIT (high-intensity interval training) or sprinting, aim for a heart rate between 80% to 85% of your maximum heart rate. This range is ideal for building endurance and increasing cardiovascular fitness.
You can use a heart rate monitor to monitor your heart rate during a workout. Several types are available, including chest straps, wristbands, and smartwatches. A heart rate monitor can provide real-time feedback on your heart rate during exercise, allowing you to adjust your intensity accordingly. Another way to measure your heart rate during exercise is by taking your pulse manually. You can do this by placing two fingers on your wrist or neck and counting the beats you feel in 15 seconds. Then, multiply that number by four to get your heart rate in bpm. For example, if you count 15 moments in 15 seconds, your heart rate would be 60 bpm (15 x 4).
It’s important to note that your heart rate during exercise can be affected by several factors, such as dehydration, medication, and stress. It’s also important to listen to your body and adjust your workout intensity accordingly. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or experience chest pain, stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.
Conclusion
A healthy heart rate during a workout is essential for achieving optimal fitness and avoiding potential health risks. The ideal heart rate during exercise depends on factors such as age, fitness level, and the type of exercise you do. You can use a heart rate monitor or take your pulse manually to monitor your heart rate during a workout. Adjust your workout intensity to avoid overexertion and potential injury.
Disclaimer: The information presented by Boston Scientific India is for educational purposes only and does not recommend self-management of health issues. The information should not be treated as comprehensive and does not intend to provide diagnosis, treatment or any medical advice. Individual results may vary and hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
IC-1601209AA-0523
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Tags
Heart Attack | Healthy Heart Rate | Workout | Body Fitness | Health Risks