What IS maximum heart rate?

[GLC1968]

Lots of interesting information posted here!

I'd like to point out one additional piece of info... While your max HR will not change with increased fitness, your resting HR can be lowered AND the speed at which your HR recovers from exertion can be improved.

When I first started HR training (ages ago...long before I picked up cycling), I was getting frustrated because while everyone else I knew frequently over-shot their estimated max's, I couldn't even come close. I frequently could barely maintain in my 75% target range. I thought there was something wrong with me! Turns out, 220-age is pretty close to spot on for me. BUT, except when biking, it is very, very difficult for me to get my HR into my training zones. I have a resting rate in the 40's, so apparently, I have a pretty strong heart that due to body issues (bad feet), I was unable to effectively challenge it. This is the primary reason I picked up cycling.


Those with more knowledge about this subject than me...I have a question. Is there a disadvantage to having a smaller workable 'window' than most? If my resting is say 44 and my max is 181, then that only leaves me with 137 beats to work with. Many people have much larger ranges (say 55 to 215 = 160). Is there an advantage either way? (not that I can really change this...I'm just curious)

[Zen]

As long as mine continues to beat I'm satisfied.