Expert: Brandon Briggs, MS - 2/29/2008

Question
I have done a great deal of reseach on HR training.  I am interested in triathlons and have been told to reshape my body and lose fat, I should start training at 60-70% of my MHR.  My MHR for cycling is 179, so my zone is 107-127.  As I have been working out in this zone, I am dismayed how low impact it is  and curious if this is the best way to burn the most fat.  When do I begin picking up the HR?

Answer
when getting your max Hr did you use the age prediction model or did you do an actual stress test? as far as burning fat. The are a lot of things involved, such as the negative caloric balance. However, weight bearing exercises like walking/jogging and elliptical trainers have been proven to burn more calories simply due to having to support you body weight as well as using more muscle which in turn will use fat for fuel. If your age predicted HRmax is 179 then you can use the same training zone for weight bearing exercises as well. Hope this is what you are looking for. if not feel free to ask more and include information such as your age, and fitness level.
Thanks