Dynamic HR Zones based on HRReserve

Training
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Hi fellow ICUers. I was thinking the other day about this and I would like to share it with you and know your thoughts.

You have an athlete with HR zones set, say for running. They haven’t done a lactate test nor a lab test, so two options you may have are MaxHR and HRReserve. In this scenario I’ve been using Pallarés (2016) recommendations for HRReserve zones.

Since we have real data to MaxHR from long ago, and we have daily data to RestingHR ever morning through wearables, would it make sense to have our zones recalculated every day based on those little changes?

For example, with random numbers, a day after an exhausting bout the athlete may find their RestingHR elevated, which would reduce HRReserve, both effects meaning that 134ppm, previously Zone2, would fall under Zone 1 with recalculated zones.

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I understand the changes to the ranges of the zones would be rather small, to the point that i wonder if it would make sense considering the normal fluctuation to HR from factors like hydration status, temperature, etc.

I’m leaning towards thinking that I’m chasing an 0.01% where it’s not, but I’d like to hear more knowledgeable people on it, if you have a minute. Appreciate you.

David.

1 Like
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I do have “custom zones for any trace” on the todo list which would make it possible to do this.

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There’s a reason why coaches prescribe a “range” of power/HR, as it can fluctuate daily based on the various factors influencing it. So that means you don’t have to ride/run right at the top of Zone 2, as you’d get the same benefits by riding slightly lower (HR).