Having treated myself to a new fitness watch on a "going to be 40 soon so should start trying to get fit" journey, I have questions about heart rate.
I think the commonly accepted calculation for max heart rate is 220-age, so about 180 for me, and that you shouldn't spend too much time very close to max. I've just been for a 40min bike ride where I was at about 175 for well over 3/4 of the ride...! Is this a problem? Should I be avoiding this?
For what it's worth I have very very minor ("trace") mitral regurgitation which I suspect means my heart isn't that efficient... but I felt at the time, and feel now post ride, completely fine. I was out of breath but could have easily held a brief conversation. I was absolutely not at my limit of endurance. No pain, and aside from feeling like I've done some actual exercise for a change, feel fine now.
I'm inclined to think if I feel fine when doing it, to just go by that - but I'd feel pretty damn stupid if I damage my heart inadvertently pushing too hard!
Does anyone have any experience on this please?
Thanks in advance!