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Last night after spin class, I noticed my polar f6 said that my maximum heart rate was 104. Could this be right? I didn't feel like I was working it that hard. Some nights it will read a maximum of 93%. If you think this is wrong, what would cause this kind of reading?
I'm assuming you mean 104% of max, which technically wouldn't be possible...
It uses an age based HR formula, which is basically bogus...
many, many people if not most do not conform to the 220-your age way of estimating max hr and setting zones and it would appear you are one of them - as the definition of max implies you can't exceed it without setting a new max.....
It's best to really establish your max hr and set your watch to your personal max to set your zones. It looks like your watch may not have a manual set feature, so to set it properly you may need to tell it you are 12 years old.... (or 15 or 17 or 25 - what ever it takes to match what you determine your max to be).
ITA with Eden that the HR formulas are a guide at best.
If you have had the HRM for a while, you may want to try switching out the batteries. As I stated in a thread below, my Polar, when it's time to change out batteries will go very high or very low (I once had a HR of 275 bpm - as I have never pushed it above 168 bpm, even at a full out sprint, I figured it was wrong :rolleyes:)
If you have an un-coded model sometimes odd things will cause it to go super high too - "invisible fences", the cart anti-theft system at the grocery store, high tension power lines.....
Did you wet the electrode before you put it on? If you don't you will get bizarre readings like that. You may need to tighten the strap too? ;)
Try setting "Own Zones" to get out of the standard HR zones based on age, although I would check the book if this adjusts the percentages. I have the F6 and did this, means that I am no longer told my hard work out range is something way low for the beats. It feels more personalized for me since using the Own Zone.
You can change the settings, I would have to pull my manual to see how but you can override the 220-age thing.
I also find that if the strap is not very tight, it will give me weird readings. I tighten it more than I think I'll need.