Polar RCX5 user manual Running Cadence and Stride Length, Determining Maximum Heart Rate

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ZoneOptimizer function is developed for the use of healthy people. Some health conditions may cause heart rate variability-based ZoneOptimizer determination to fail or give lower intensity targets. These conditions include high blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, and certain medications.

Maximum Heart Rate

Maximum heart rate (HRmax) is the highest number of heartbeats per minute (bpm) during maximum physical exertion. It is individual and depends on age, hereditary factors, and fitness level. It may also vary according to the type of sport performed. HRmax is used to express training intensity.

Determining Maximum Heart Rate

Your HRmax can be determined in several ways.

•The most accurate way is to have your HRmax clinically measured, usually on a maximal treadmill or by taking a bicycle stress test supervised by a cardiologist or an exercise physiologist.

•You can also determine your HRmax by taking a field test together with a training partner.

•You can obtain a HRmax-p score that predicts your HRmax by taking the Polar Fitness Test.

•HRmax can also be estimated by using the commonly used formula: 220 - age, although research shows that this method is not very accurate, especially for older persons or those who have been fit for many years.

If you have done some hard training in recent weeks and know that you can safely reach maximum heart rate, you can safely take a test to determine your HRmax yourself. Having a training buddy with you during the test is recommended. If you are uncertain, consult your physician before undertaking the test.

Here is an example of a simple test.

Step 1: Warm up for 15 minutes on a flat surface, building up to your usual training pace.

Step 2: Choose a hill or stairwell that will take more than 2 minutes to climb. Run up the hill/steps once, building to as hard a pace as you can hold for 20 minutes. Return to the base of the hill/steps.

Step 3: Run up the hill/steps again, building towards a pace you could just about hold for 3 kilometers. Note your highest heart rate. Your maximum is approximately 10 beats higher than the noted value.

Step 4: Run back down the hill, allowing your heart rate to drop 30-40 beats per minute.

Step 5: Run up the hill/steps once again at a pace that you can only hold for 1 minute. Try to run halfway up the hills/steps. Note your highest heart rate. This brings you close to your maximum heart rate. Use this value as your maximum heart rate to set training zones.

Step 6: Make sure you get a good cool-down, a minimum of 10 minutes.

Running Cadence and Stride Length

Cadence* is the number of times the foot with the stride sensor* hits the ground per minute.

Stride length* is the average length of one step. That is the distance between your right and left foot contacting the ground.

Running speed = 2 * stride length * cadence

There are two ways to run faster: moving your legs at a higher cadence or taking longer steps.

Elite long distance runners typically run with a high cadence of 85-95. On uphills, typical cadence values are lower. On downhills they are higher. Runners adjust stride length to gather speed: stride length increases as speed increases.

Yet one of the most common mistakes novice runners make is over-striding. The most efficient stride length is the natural one – the one that feels most comfortable. You will run faster in races by strengthening your leg muscles so they take you forward with a longer stride.

46Background Information

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Contents Polar RCX5 Contents Applications English Index Introduction Training Computer Parts Optional AccessoriesPolar RCX5 Training Computer Parts English Button Functions and Menu Structure Basic SettingsGetting Started Button FunctionsData SettingsProgram Applications Fitness TestCalibrate the Polar s3+ Stride Sensor Prepare for TrainingPlan Your Training Sport ProfilesCalibration by Running Wizard Set Calibration Factor ManuallyOptional s3+ stride sensor required Wear the Transmitter TrainingStart Training Start Training Session with Polar ZoneOptimizer Train With Polar ZoneOptimizerChange sport during training session English Train With Race Pace Use Polar Endurance Training ProgramUse RCX5 in Multisport Training Button Functions During TrainingZoom the Training View Display Record a LapLock a Zone HeartTouchPersonalize the Training Computer Display Night ModeInformation on the display Symbol Explanation View Quick MenuDistance FarReminder FarPause/ Stop Training Recording Single Sport Training Files After TrainingAnalyze Training Results RunningCycling LapsWeek Summaries Multisport Training FileAutomatic laps Reset Totals Reset Week SummariesReset Trip Totals SinceData Transfer How to set your PC for data transmissionTransfer Data Sport Profile Settings SettingsRunning Settings Cycling Settings Bike SettingsWheel size diameter inches Wheel size setting mm Swimming SettingsMethod Heart Rate Settings Other Sport SettingsUser Information Settings Rate limits Set lower limit Accept the value with OK. SetOwnIndex General SettingsMaximum Heart Rate HRmax Recording Rate 15s 60sMin Connection Settings Watch SettingsQuick menu Option is only available when s3+ stride sensor is in use Before the Test ApplicationsPolar Fitness Test Performing the TestAfter the Test Age / Years Very low Low Fair Moderate Good Very good EliteLatest results How to Use Race PacePolar Race Pace Delete OwnIndex ValueEnglish Using a New Transmitter Using a NEW TransmitterPairing a New Transmitter With Training Computer Pairing a New Cadence Sensor With Training Computer Using a NEW AccessoryPairing a New Speed Sensor With Training Computer Pairing a New GPS Sensor With Training ComputerPairing a New Stride Sensor With Training Computer Target zone Background InformationPolar Sport Zones Example Training benefitHeart Rate Variability Polar ZoneOptimizerMeasurement phases Benefits of the ZoneOptimizer featureZoneOptimizer measurement Running Cadence and Stride Length Maximum Heart RateDetermining Maximum Heart Rate Polar Running Index Short-term analysisCooper test m Km hmmss 21.098 km 42.195 km Hmmss Running Index Performance LevelLong-term analysis Polar Endurance Training Program for Running and Cycling Polar Training Load FeatureSuitable Program Starting Level for Everybody Polar Training Articles Caring for Your Product ServiceImportant Information Changing BatteriesPrior to changing the battery, please note the following Change Batteries YourselfMinimizing Risks When Training Battery Lifetime in RCX5Precautions Interference During TrainingTraining computer Technical SpecificationsTraining computer limit values Transmitter Frequently Asked QuestionsDo not know where I am in the menu? Water resistanceLimited International Polar Guarantee ZoneOptimizer determination fails?Receipt of the original purchase is your proof of purchase Disclaimer Index
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