Ask the Doctors | July 2004

Ask the Doctors
By Drs. Jeff, Craig and Marissa

Question: Why is it important to maintain a target heart rate during exercise?

Answer: This is an important question because maximizing you target heart rate and training level will maximize your results in weight loss and/or health! The great thing about Curves is we've made it really easy for you to figure out your particular target heart rate (THR) through the simple chart on the wall. The chart will help you determine how to measure your target heart rate based on your age.

But before we determine your target heart rate (THR) it's important to understand that if you are just beginning an exercise regimen and have a health problem you should work at the lower level (50 percent). For those of you who are healthy but new to the exercise program, we'll have you exercise at 60%-70%. Of course, if you've been at Curves for longer then 6 months and have been working out consistently, it's probably time to move up to 70%-80%. Now you are probably asking: "Why do I need to keep my heart rate between these zones?" Science and research has found that the human body burns different types of fuel at different activity levels. For instance, a sprinter will burn basically GLYCOGEN which is stored glucose as he/she is working in the 90% (THR) or also termed ANAEROBIC. On the other hand, if you are working out AEROBICALLY (60-70%-THR) you will be burning FAT as the predominant fuel.

To summarize, if your heart rate climbs too high (90% THR) and you are gasping for air, then you will be burning glycogen instead of fat. This will not allow you to achieve the results that you came to Curves for. So pay attention to your heart rate--it is extremely useful tool during the Curves workout.

We hope this has answered your question and keep up the good work at Curves. We are proud of you!!!