Unfit newbie wants to use a HRM

Ok this is it ... been running now for about 12wks. Very slow 12-13min miles. Max run before I walk 21 mins. I would love a new HRM for Xmas so a mate is lending me theirs to see how I get on with one before I spend the money.
Just read the RW artical on using a HRM and sorry no comprehendo! Plus I can't maintain my top "spead"(haha) for a full 3 mins once let alone twice!
So what's the best way to work out my MHR? Also if I want to lose weight what rate should I be working at 65%?
all help/comments VERY gratefully recieved!

Evil Pixie (what a wonderful name) I would suggest that you read the thread by Ron Grover on the general forum regarding the RW article on using a HRM. It may take you quite a while to read all the messages but he has posted some really useful messages which should answer all your queries.

As for the weight loss thingy - the faster your run the faster you lose weight. Your metabolic rate, which is a key element in weight loss, stays at a higher level and for longer after a hard run than after a slow run.

Cheers Drew!
love your picture BTW!!

Go for it Evil Pixie, it's a must for anyone in geek land. I'm another HRM fan.
In addition to reading the thread on HR, you could spend time just gathering the data from your HRM. All the formulae in the world are only relevant when set into context of your individual HR at your existing level of fitness.
Don't know if you keep a training log but if you don't start now and note the length of your runs, distance if you know it, and av HR. Over time you'll build up a good picture of how your HR behaves in relation to your running. Also you'll get the satisfaction on seeing improvements in your fitness reflected in your HR.

Good luck

EP

Go for it, I'm a fan too. And since I know you must be IT competent (how did I guess) you'll soon have more tables graphs charts in Excel than you kow what to do with.

BUT don't get too obsessive, lots of things affect your HR and from one day to the next you get fixated on it and feel things are going backwards. Relax, note with interest and enjoy running.

I just use avg HR and track the calorie usage function on mine - I'm pretty confident on the data for calories I feel I can use it to estimate distance +/- 3%.

re the fat burning issue:

Yes long slow runs are shown to use a greater proportion of fat as fuel. BUT on a slow run you are using less fuel/minute. When you put the two together it actually means you need to be working quite hard to get the optimum fat burning while exercising. And as Drew says, working harder means your metabolism runs on at a higher rate (burning fat) after you stop.

I'd advise reading the book 'Heart Rate Training for the Compleat Idiot', which despite not being able to spell complete, is an excellent read. It's simple and focuses on not overdoing things, with a couple of harder runs in the week. Look at the link:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0915297256/qid%3D1033728778/026-9714644-3250825

By the way I notice there’s a link about running speed and burning more calories on the Q+A section of this site, if that any use.

Amazon say its out of stock - but it is spelt that way!

I have an old HRM it doesn't store anything, the ranges can only be set in 5's, but I love running with it. Good for both hard and easy runs since in both cases it makes me adjust my speed as I don't run fast fast enough or slow slow enough.

I want one that stores the whole run, and can download to my laptop. Now that would be fun!

I find my HRM doesn't work on the treadmill, EVER, is this normal? Is it interference? Mines a M22, so coded.

Hi everyone!

thank you very much for the information .. I've been reading the Ron grover thread meantioned by Drew (only got to page 6 so far!)
The HRM I ma borrowing is a very basic Polar Beat and gives the HR only. Being a bit geeky I would kinda like a fancy one though!
Only used it round the house so far (Ironing increases my HR for some strange reason!).
I'm 29 with about 2st to lose so I think I will stay at about 130-150 as a range for now ... does this sound about right?
cheers!