In the words of Terry O'Neil, ex GB coach:
"The problem is that the recommended heart rate bands are based on the formula that maximum heart rate = 220 - age but this gives you an average figure. The size of the average family in Britain is 2.2 children but I don't know anyone who has 2.2 children. No doubt there is someone who actually has a maximum heart rate of 220 - age, most likely some yak farmer in Outer Mongolia. So for all you non-yak herders in suburbia, I am going to tell you how to determine your own maximum heart rate, or MHR as it is known in the trade."
See http://concept2.co.uk/training/answers?id=3 for Tel's version of the max HR test.
Basically I am researching maximal heart rate on the rowing machine amongst male club rowers because a) max HR differs for the same person on different machines (cycle, treadmill etc) and b) research generally has looked only at elite athletes and past masters, and c) men and women might differ so I have to focus on one group.
So, in order to qualify you have to be male, over 16 and not on any medication known to affect heart rates. You also need to be fit and healthy and, since this is a maximal test you will need to work maximally in order to get a true and useful max HR figure, so you should be committed and familiar with what it feels like to make a maximal effort.
Testing will take place at the club. If you are interested then please do get in touch with me so that we can arrange a mutually convenient time. If you have already taken the test then again many thanks for getting involved.
Please reply or send any questions direct to me at
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and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.
thanks
Marcus
(the one coaching the juniors)
