Expert: Brandon Briggs, MS - 5/10/2009

Question
I recently joined Curves fitness last week and when I do the 30 minute workout my heart rate is in the high 130. They tell me it should be about 113 for 70%.  I am 58, do not smoke, 150 lbs, do not have high blood pressure and before Curves I walked about 3 times a week for an hour 16 min. mile.  When I work out at Curves and my heart rate is 135-140 I feel OK.  I can feel my heart, but I am not out of breath and can talk with no problem. I am not working as hard as I can on the machines, going slow-med and only walking between machines. I have no medical problems and go to doctor regularly.  Curves tells me I an not used to workout and my heart rate will lower.  I have gone now about 8 times in the last week and a half.  Why would my heart rate go so high.  What do you suggest I do  Perhaps Curves is not the right work out for me.  Thanks

Answer
Hi Carol,

Based on the age prediction equation your Target Heart Rate should be 115-137. Your heart rate initially is high probably because you are slightly deconditioned. As your conditioning improves it will take more work to get your heart rate higher. The best way to improve your cardiovascular conditioning is doing aerobic/cardiovascular exercise such as walking, riding a bike, etc.. Hope this helps you.

Brandon