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5/10/2011

25 or 6 to 4

The newest maximum heart rate formula change reminds me of the Old Chicago song, "25 or 6 to 4." Don't ask me why, except for the fact that they both seem a little weird.


The new formula applies to women over 35. Formerly, everyonewas instructed to use the easy-to-remember formula: 220-age= Maximum heart rate (HR max.) It seems, however, that that formula is based on a study of men only.So, a new study was performed for women.


The appropriate formula for women over 35 yearsis: 206(.88 X age) = HR max.


So, for example, where a 40-year old woman would formerly have had a HR max of 220-40=180. Now, the same woman would have a HR max of 206-(.88 X 40) or 170.8.


Of course, these are merely guidelines, as many other factors influence each individuals' true peak heart rate. But this is a better starting point for many women. So now that you've got the right numbers, ladies- no excuses!

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