Polar RCX5 user manual Heart Rate Variability, Polar ZoneOptimizer

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Aerobic power is enhanced in heart rate zone 3. The training intensity is higher than in sport zones 1 and 2, but still mainly aerobic. Training in sport zone 3 may, for example, consist of intervals followed by recovery. Training in this zone is especially effective for improving the efficiency of blood circulation in the heart and skeletal muscles.

If your goal is to compete at top potential, you will have to train in heart rate zones 4 and 5. In these zones, you exercise anaerobically in intervals of up to 10 minutes. The shorter the interval, the higher the intensity. Sufficient recovery between intervals is very important. The training pattern in zones 4 and 5 is designed to produce peak performance.

The Polar target heart rate zones can be personalized by using a laboratory measured HRmax value, or by taking a field test to measure the value yourself. When training in a target heart rate zone, try to make use of the entire zone. The mid-zone is a good target, but keeping your heart rate at that exact level all the time is not necessary. Heart rate gradually adjusts to training intensity. For instance, when crossing from heart rate target zone 1 to 3, the circulatory system and heart rate will adjust in 3-5 minutes.

Heart rate responds to training intensity depending on factors such as fitness and recovery levels, as well as environmental factors. It is important to look out for subjective feelings of fatigue, and to adjust your training program accordingly.

Heart Rate Variability

Heart rate varies with every heartbeat. Heart rate variability (HRV) is the variation of beat to beat intervals, also known as R-R intervals.

HRV indicates the fluctuations of heart rate around an average heart rate. An average heart rate of 60 beats per minute (bpm) does not mean that the interval between successive heartbeats would be exactly 1.0 sec, instead they may fluctuate/vary from 0.5 sec up to 2.0 sec.

HRV is affected by aerobic fitness. HRV of a well-conditioned heart is generally large at rest. Other factors that affect HRV are age, genetics, body position, time of day, and health status. During exercise, HRV decreases as heart rate and exercise intensity increase. HRV also decreases during periods of mental stress.

HRV is regulated by the autonomic nervous system. Parasympathetic activity decreases heart rate and increases HRV, whereas sympathetic activity increases heart rate and decreases HRV.

HRV is used in the OwnIndex and ZoneOptimizer features.

Polar ZoneOptimizer

Polar ZoneOptimizer feature adopts this principle as it recommends lower intensity training when little heart rate variability is detected and higher intensity training, when plenty of heart rate variability is detected. It also gives you feedback on daily physiological status (good/normal/low) in respect to the

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Contents Polar RCX5 Contents Applications English Index Introduction Polar RCX5 Training Computer Parts Optional AccessoriesTraining Computer Parts English Basic Settings Getting StartedButton Functions and Menu Structure Button FunctionsSettings ProgramData Applications Fitness TestPrepare for Training Plan Your TrainingCalibrate the Polar s3+ Stride Sensor Sport ProfilesCalibration by Running Wizard Set Calibration Factor ManuallyOptional s3+ stride sensor required Start Training TrainingWear the Transmitter Change sport during training session Train With Polar ZoneOptimizerStart Training Session with Polar ZoneOptimizer English Use Polar Endurance Training Program Use RCX5 in Multisport TrainingTrain With Race Pace Button Functions During TrainingRecord a Lap Lock a ZoneZoom the Training View Display HeartTouchNight Mode Information on the display Symbol ExplanationPersonalize the Training Computer Display View Quick MenuDistance FarReminder FarPause/ Stop Training Recording After Training Analyze Training ResultsSingle Sport Training Files RunningCycling LapsAutomatic laps Multisport Training FileWeek Summaries Reset Week Summaries Reset TripReset Totals Totals SinceTransfer Data How to set your PC for data transmissionData Transfer Running Settings SettingsSport Profile Settings Cycling Settings Bike SettingsMethod Swimming SettingsWheel size diameter inches Wheel size setting mm Heart Rate Settings Other Sport SettingsUser Information Settings Rate limits Set lower limit Accept the value with OK. SetGeneral Settings Maximum Heart Rate HRmaxOwnIndex Recording Rate 15s 60sMin Quick menu Watch SettingsConnection Settings Option is only available when s3+ stride sensor is in use Applications Polar Fitness TestBefore the Test Performing the TestAfter the Test Age / Years Very low Low Fair Moderate Good Very good EliteHow to Use Race Pace Polar Race PaceLatest results Delete OwnIndex ValueEnglish Pairing a New Transmitter With Training Computer Using a NEW TransmitterUsing a New Transmitter Using a NEW Accessory Pairing a New Speed Sensor With Training ComputerPairing a New Cadence Sensor With Training Computer Pairing a New GPS Sensor With Training ComputerPairing a New Stride Sensor With Training Computer Background Information Polar Sport ZonesTarget zone Example Training benefitHeart Rate Variability Polar ZoneOptimizerZoneOptimizer measurement Benefits of the ZoneOptimizer featureMeasurement phases Determining Maximum Heart Rate Maximum Heart RateRunning Cadence and Stride Length Polar Running Index Short-term analysisLong-term analysis Running Index Performance LevelCooper test m Km hmmss 21.098 km 42.195 km Hmmss Suitable Program Starting Level for Everybody Polar Training Load FeaturePolar Endurance Training Program for Running and Cycling Polar Training Articles Service Important InformationCaring for Your Product Changing BatteriesPrior to changing the battery, please note the following Change Batteries YourselfBattery Lifetime in RCX5 PrecautionsMinimizing Risks When Training Interference During TrainingTraining computer limit values Technical SpecificationsTraining computer Frequently Asked Questions Do not know where I am in the menu?Transmitter Water resistanceLimited International Polar Guarantee ZoneOptimizer determination fails?Receipt of the original purchase is your proof of purchase Disclaimer Index
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