Utilizing FS2.5 Heart Rate Features

Using the Pulse Display

The pulse (Heart Rate) readout will display your current heart rate in beats per minute during your workout. Pulse value displays anytime the upper display is receiving a pulse signal while the user is gripping the hand grip contacts.

Heart Rate Training Programs

Target Heart Rate Program

1. Select the Target Heart Rate Program using the UP/DOWN keys, then press the ENTER key.
2. The first parameter, “Time,” will flash. Adjust the value using the the UP/DOWN keys. Press the ENTER key to save the value and move to next parameter. Note: if the user sets up the target time to workout, target distance cannot be adjusted.
3. Continue through all desired parameters. When completed, press the START/STOP key to begin the workout.
4. When any one of the workout parameters counts down to zero, the console emits a beep sound and the workout stops automatically. Press the START key to continue the workout to reach the unfinished workout goals set.

Heart Rate Control Programs

There are four (4) selections for target pulse: 

• HRC- 55% TARGET H.R= 55% of (220-AGE) 
• HRC - 65% TARGET H.R= 65% of (220-AGE) 
• HRC - 75% TARGET H.R= 75% of (220-AGE) 
• HRC - 85% TARGET H.R= 85% of (220-AGE) 

To make a selection and begin a program:

1. Select the desired Heart Rate Control Program using the UP/DOWN keys, then press the ENTER key.
2. The first parameter, “Time,” will flash. Adjust the value using the the UP/DOWN keys. Press the ENTER key to save the value and move to next parameter. Note: if user sets up the target time to workout then the next parameter of distance can not be adjusted.
3. Continue through all desired parameters. When completed, press the START/STOP key to begin the workout.
4. When any one of the workout parameters counts down to zero, the console emits a beep sound and the workout stops automatically. Press the START key to continue the workout to reach the unfinished workout goals set.

Calculating Your Target Heart Rate

To determine the target heart rate zone in which you wish to train, you must first determine your predicted maximum heart rate. After determining your predicted maximum heart rate, you must determine the effective heart rate range for your specific cardiovascular goals. Your target heart rate training zone is 50% to 90% of your maximum heart rate. 60% of your maximum heart rate is the zone that burns fat, while 80% is for strengthening the cardiovascular system. This 60% to 80% range is the zone to stay in for maximum benefit.

Your target training zone heart rate can be calculated by using the following formula: 

220 - (your age) = maximum heart rate
(maximum heart rate) x .6 = 60% of maximum heartbeats per minute
(maximum heart rate) x .8 = 80% of maximum heartbeats per minute

For someone who is 40 years old, their predicted target heart rate zone is calculated as follows:

220 – 40 = 180 (maximum heart rate)
180 x .6 = 108 beats per minute (60% of maximum)
180 X .8 = 144 beats per minute (80% of maximum)

Heart Rate and the Rate of Perceived Exertion

The Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE), also known as the Borg Scale, was developed by Swedish physiologist G.A.V. Borg. This scale rates exercise intensity from 6 to 20 depending upon how you feel or the perception of your effort.

In addition to monitoring your heart rate to understand your target training zone, listening to your body during workouts also has a lot of advantages. There are more variables involved in how hard you should workout other than just heart rate. Your stress level, physical health, emotional health, temperature, humidity, the time of day, the last time you ate, and what you ate all contribute to the intensity at which you should workout.

You can get an approximate heart rate level for each rating by simply adding a zero to each rating. For example, a rating of 12 will result in an approximate heart rate of 120 beats per minute. Your RPE will vary depending on stress, temperature, diet, etc. If your body is strong and rested, you will feel strong and your pace will feel comfortable. When your body is in this condition, you are able to train harder and your RPE will support this. If you are feeling tired and sluggish, it is because your body needs a break. In this condition, your pace will feel difficult. Again, this will show up in your RPE and you will train at the proper level for that day.