Question: How can I accurately determine my maximum heart rate on the bike? Do you have a simple workout/text I can do? — Jerzy L. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: First, get a physician’s approval so you’re sure you can go to max without health risks. Then do the following test on a trainer so you don’t…
Question: I’m 55, have been off the bike for five years and gained significant weight. I also had two angioplasty procedures. Now I’m riding again, but my cardiologist recommends a max heart rate of 145. It’s hard to keep it so low. I want to train normally. How can I convince my doctor to allow…
Question: I’m 49 and don’t monitor my heart rate when I ride outside. But the exercise bike at the gym has a heart monitor, so I’m trying it. I’ve heard that I should exercise at 40-60% of my max heart rate, but I don’t feel like I am getting a workout when I’m below 60%….
Question: I have read with great interest the discussion regarding stress tests for heart health. I’m 59 and just bought my first road bike in over 30 years. I’m addicted! I use a heart rate monitor and my maximum heart rate should be 161 beats per minute, but when climbing or riding hard I easily…
Question: I race in the 45+ masters division and use daily bike commutes for training. After a day or two off the bike, I can stay above my lactate threshold heart rate for long intervals. However, after commuting 30 miles per day for a few days, it becomes increasingly difficult to achieve a high heart…
