Running and heart rate training?

[doc]

Venus
I'm not even sure with what you are disagreeing. I merely said there may not be anything wrong with a HR of 160. That is perfectly true. It may be zone 3 for someone. I didn't say she HAD to train at that level, I said don't be afraid to.

If she keeps her heart rate at 110 she will never get anywhere. For short runs like those under 5miles, perceived exertion is perfectly fine. She is training to complete a race, not to become a professional. Therefore enjoyment is of paramount importance. If she can talk at 160 and is comfortable there for the whole distance there is absolutely no reason to slow down just to decrease her heart rate.

I am very clear on what HR training can and can't do for you. However, a newbie should NOT be focusing on HR. They should focus on perceived exertion and enjoyment. Later when they have a reliable base different training techniques can be employed to either increase distance, increase speed, or change aerobic and anaerobic thresholds.