Resting Heart Rate

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netballcoach24

0
Hi All,

I was just wondering!! I have a RHR of about 55, and looking on the net claims that in my age bracket (37) I am an 'Athlete', so as oyu can imagine I was well pleased witht hat. Then on thinking a little bit deeper, being about 3 stone over weight how can that be.

I play netball for about 3 hours a week, and go to the gym for about 3 hours a week (doesn't sound much when its written down) but takes so much time up.

recently I retired fromplaying Elite Ice Hockey, which I played for 16 years, and was wondering is this still having an affect on my fitness levles.

I have recently taken up running after entering Race for Life, and tbh I really do not enjoy it, find it boring as it is continous, where as I am used to quick bursts in my sports. I can just about run 3k without stopping, but i get bored before my fitness going, so have to finish the rest of the 5k with hand cycling (thinking that using the arms is more cardio for heart and lungs than normal cycling).

Any help, advise and theories greatly appreciated

Donna
 
Resting heart rate is dictated mainly by genetics and fitness. An elite hockey player would have a resting heart rate much lower than that 55 (mine is 49 and I am not elite). Your resting heart rate will continue to increase with your decreased fitness.
 
If you don't like running, don't run. I hate running but I can do bike for 5 straight hours. But if you really want to run, I suggest you to alterne run/walk with specific time. It will be less boring and with time, you'll be able to run longer. It's what my father tought me and he ran multiple marathon over the age of 50.
 
I am not sure exactly sure if there was a specific question there, but here are a few notes related to the topic.

Your resting heart rate of 55 is within a normal range from what you described as your fitness level. As stated, some of it has to do with genetics, and some of it has to do with your fitness training. With exercise (aerobic) your body becomes more efficiant at delivering oxygen to the parts that need oxygen. Your heart muscles also increase in size and strength. This all means that your heart will pump less often to still accomplish the same tasks.

Because of this adaptation in the body, you typically see endurance athletes with lower heart rates. A certain number though doesnt mean a whole lot because there is other factors (genetics) that play a role.

For example, Lance Armstrong is said to have a resting HR in the high 30s, yet there are professional athletes whose resting HR are in the high 60s. I do a lot of endurance exercise, and mine runs about 46. However, during the winter when I am training less, it will slowly move up into the 50s.


As for the weight.... your heart will benefit from weight loss for many reasons but it will likely only effect the resting HR a little.

And for the running... if you dont like it, dont do it. There are plenty of ways to get aerobic exercise other than running. If you feel you want to run, but just get bored doing it, try running while listening to some of your favorite music, or get a friend to join you on your run. Time will go faster that way... I promise.
 
Hey Donna,
It is probably because you used to play sports regularly, so your heart rate slowed down permanently to a healthy pace.
I have been working out for 3 years, both weights and cardio, and I am now a fitness trainer, but my heart rate is still at a ridiculous 80 BPM..
I think it is because I didn't play sports when I was young.
So you have it good!
 
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