OPERATION
2 Custom User-defined Programs
These programs enable you to set up, store into memory and then work out in 2 different course profiles that you customize.
Time Trial
This program enables you to work out against a “pacer” to determine how long it takes you to cover a preset distance. You preset the speed of the “pacer” as the baseline of your workout and race to the end of the preset distance. At the end of the Time Trial, the computer displays the watts, distance, speed, etc. that you have achieved.
Fitness Test
The Fitness Test is one of the best ways to measure improvements in your physical fitness level. The test measures your fitness by comparing your power output (in Watts) to your Heart Rate. In general, as you become “more fit,” you will produce more power (Watts) at a given Heart Rate.
Here is how the test measures your power and heart rate. As the test starts, the power (watts) slowly increases. This means that you will work harder, and as a result, your heart rate increases. The watts continue to increase automatically until your heart rate reaches the “Test Zone.” This zone is indi- vidually calculated for each user to be near 75% of their estimated maximum heart rate. (This "Maximum Heart Rate" is computed from the information you input into the computer when you start the program. These number val- ues are different for everyone.) When you reach the Test Zone, the elliptical holds the watts steady for 3 minutes to allow you to achieve a steady heart rate state. It is important to concentrate on keeping a steady heart rate dur- ing these 3 minutes to ensure consistent and more accurate readings.
At the end of the three minutes, the computer measures your Heart Rate, and the power (Watts). These numbers (along with information about your age and weight) are put into a formula, and produce a “Fitness Score.”
By logging and noticing the change in your own fitness scores, you can see your progress to increased fitness. The higher your score, the higher your fit- ness level. For example, let’s say you have an initial fitness score of 28. Four weeks later you perform the test again and your score is 35. This means you have increased your fitness. Your power output has increased and at the same time your heart rate has decreased. You are producing more power with less effort.
Note: The Fitness Test is an excellent way to measure changes in your own fitness level. It is not designed to compare one person’s score to another person’s score, because the test's formula only “estimates” your Maximum Heart Rate. Therefore the numbers are only relevant when compared with your own fitness scores. (There are no corresponding "absolute" numbers in the owner’s manual that you can reference to see what your fitness level is.)
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