I go up to a 170 heartrate when I work out. Is this too high?

I asked this in my group:

I do sort of sprinting: I have a POLAR heart rate monitor. 155 is my average, I go down to 145 and up to 170 (I know that's high but sometimes I just go up there). Anyone know?

This was the answer I got. I thought it was so helpful that I wanted to repost it. I've been wondering this for years:

Elle - I didn't see your question before - and I guess you're just looking for feedback vice anything specific? Anyways, there are many schools of thought on heart rate's role in working out. I wouldn't worry too much about the guidelines set that target "Weight Loss Zone" and "Cardiovascular Training Zone" -- they're kind of based on inexact science. The idea behind the weight loss zone is that it's a less intense workout, and it burns a higher percentage of fat versus other sources of fuel (i.e. glycogen in the muscles). The truth is that at more intense levels of exercise, you burn a lower percentage of fat, but you burn more calories overall, so you end up losing more fat. Besides which, the glycogen that you burn in your muscles gets replaced either by the food that you eat or by breaking down fat, so it all ends up the same after all. That being said, the best way of measuring your workout intensity is a scale using Perceived Exertion. Try this link: http://exercise.about.com/cs/fitnesstools/l/blperceivedexer.htm

I don't think there is anything wrong with going up to 170 bpm; I do that often. I frequently stay around 150-160 when I monitor, and will surge up to 170 or so. Consistency is more important than an absolute number -- major differences from one workout to another could indicate illness or other problems, but like I said, if you feel you are going at a challenging pace, that is usually good enough!

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Wed. Oct 19, 5:45pm

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