Heart rate monitors

[ClaraPP]

Hi all just starting out today and completed my first run. I was just wondering if you all use heart rate monitors and if so which ones. I have a fitbit but unsure how accurate it is also wasn’t sure if I should be worrying about monitoring heart rate so much? Thanks

[Rignold]

What do you need your heart rate information for, exactly?

[ClaraPP Graduate]

I’m not sure really I just wasn’t sure if it’s something I should be measuring I suppose maybe that I’m not overdoing it?

[Rignold in reply to ClaraPP]

If you are overdoing it in a cardiac sense you will certainly know about it without needing a heart rate monitor. You really don't need one for doing C25k, or any running that is not at competitive level really. Many people do like to get devices which record all sorts of data for heart rate to vertical bounce while running, and it can be quite fun to look at, but there is no necessity for it. it will neither make you a better runner nor keep you from injury.

[ClaraPP Graduate in reply to Rignold]

Ok thanks

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Some people begin to use a Heart monitor as they move to much much longer distance running. But many many of us on the forum never use one. Using one is one thing, understanding what its saying and what you want it to say, and when is another.

I just run and aim to enjoy it😀

[ClaraPP Graduate in reply to Millsie-J]

Thanks

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

No.. as long as mine keeps beating and I am breathing okay.. I am happy

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Rigs has said it all really. Unless you ascertain your true max HR, rather than the average figure that your device gives you, then the results will at best be broad estimates of your actual zones.

If you don't actually understand the data that your Fitbit gives you then you are better off ignoring it.

[Tasha99 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Fitbits do give the maximum HR

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Tasha99]

No, your Fitbit records your heart rate and any maximum heart rate that it suggests based on your age is just an average, not an accurate recording of your actual maximum HR, which may vary considerably.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

A little test if you want to try; Check your resting (relaxed) heart rate each week. You should find as you become fitter that this will go down 👍

There's so much tech out there but most of it is just a money magnet. Your fitbit should have a fair bit of info for you to keep an eye on week to week. It might start to become more clear over time 😊

[ClaraPP Graduate in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

Thank you

[ju-ju- Graduate]

no need to worry about that at this stage..... or ever really. Do you have a heart condition? In which case best get checked out by your GP before you start...

[ClaraPP Graduate in reply to ju-ju-]

Thanks No I don’t have a heart condition

[Tasha99 Graduate]

I use a Fitbit.