Heart Rate Monitors: Don’t Even Consider Running Until You Read This  

During your training routine you probably think that you are working as hard and as effectively as you possibly can. Unfortunately this isn't always the case.  

For the most effective work out our heart rate has to be between certain rates to ensure you are getting the most out of your work out. The rate that you will need will be individual to you and is mainly based on your age. A rough rule by thumb on how to find your perfect heart rate for exercising is to find your maxim heart rate number (usually around the 220 mark) and subtract your age. You then need to stay within 50% to 80% of this number to make sure you get the most from your work out. 

The great thing about this is that as you get fitter, your heart rate will drop, meaning you have to challenge yourself to keep your training programme new and fresh and full of energy.  

Now, the heart rate monitor itself comprises of two parts. One of which is a strap which goes around the chest. This part takes the heart rate reading and sends it to the second part of the heart rate monitor – a watch. This watch will keep you informed as to what your heart rate is and will help you decide when to work harder and when to slow it down.  

If you are serious about your training routine and want to see quick and lasting improvements in your overall fitness, a heart rate monitor is the one gadget that you cannot be without.  

The great thing about heart rate monitors is that they don't cost the earth and you can pick them up from most decent sporting shops.  

Once you have gotten to grips with the heart rate numbers and where yours needs to be ideally, you will never look back. If you are keen to see what these clever little gadgets can do for you, but aren't sure about spending your hard earned cash on it, then nip down to your local gym. Most of them have a number of heart rate monitors to lend out, so you can try before you buy.