Not a doctor, but here's the way I understand it based on experience with two college athletes I had.One was similar to your case, pretty normal resting HR, would get higher than expected HRs during workouts. The other had a resting HR in the 70s (this is the one I was really concerned about) and would have higher than expected HRs during workouts.Both got referrals to cardiologists and both were fine. HR by itself is an extremely variable thing, and the 220-age rule is just a basic rule of thumb and certainly doesn't apply to athletes (shouldn't be a shock to anyone here). Both had several tests done while at rest and while working out. The concern was that the high HR was linked to blood pressure issues or abnormal heart rhythm.The doctors explained to the girls that a strong, normal, high heart rate is ok. We all talked about over training and were careful to watch and monitor for that, but some people just have higher heart rates.I would still encourage you to have her looked at by a doctor, just in case. Always better safe than sorry, right?
DangerDangerWillRobinson? wrote:
I have an elite young female athlete with a resting pulse of 50.
She exceeds 204HR on training runs at 85-90% vVO2 max - calculated from PR's; using 2 mile PR from track season past as the XC (adjusting for track to cross country surfaces).
Her recovery HR only gets to 150 on 1:1 rest (consistent though).
Her average pulse on a .6m continuous hill loop (up and down for 30 minutes; 4.5 miles total) was 195. She said she felt "easy", "good", "refreshed". She exhibited no stress - we are working on form and running economy and she looks better, less stressed when she runs.
Information is from a heart monitor and pulse taking. It is consistent from workout to workout.
Is she in danger with the HR exceeding 200?