General Discussion Triathlon Talk » RPE vs. HR Training Rss Feed  
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2005-10-26 9:18 PM

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Subject: RPE vs. HR Training
I've been running for years, but never seriously trained at it. Now that I've been bitten by the Tri bug, I'd really like to improve my performance and fitness. For my first race this September, I was MOP in swimming and running, but BOP in cycling (due of course, to lack of training on the bike, which I am resolving.)

Right now, I'm focused on improving technique in all three sports. I plan to continue this until the new year, when I'd like to start in on a training plan. I had my mind set on getting a heart rate monitor, but now I'm not so sure. For one, after reading a couple of posts, I'm concerned about the strap and chaffing/rashing. I'm very fair with sensitive skin. Also, it seems like one other piece of equipment to learn about and deal with. But, I'd be willing to invest the time if HR-based training is clearly more effective than RPE-based.

Any thoughts/opinions/studies on RPE vs. HR training?

Thanks,
Heidi


2005-10-26 9:40 PM
in reply to: #273121

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
My very limited experience opinion is that RPE can be very useful if you are objective in using it. A benefit of HR monitors is that you have an objective number in front of you...I'm sure you've read many posts of how surprised people are to see hwo slowly they have to go when they finally put on a HR monitor. 

You can also take your own pulse while exercising, it just takes longer than having a HR monitor. 
2005-10-26 10:30 PM
in reply to: #273121

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
agree with AdventureBear.

For me, the HR monitor choice is personal more than scientific. I could never accurately determine thru RPE how hard I was working. Seeing that number in front of me helps me pace myself a lot better. It keeps me honest for those days I know I'd slack off on the RPE when I didn't feel like working out so much or knew I was working out too hard.



2005-10-27 12:56 AM
in reply to: #273137

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
I think the question isn't RPE vs HR, but how to best use the two together. After learning what the correct training intensities are for each type of workout, you can use RPE effectively, but you need some objective basis to determine those intensities and learn what they feel like. Using RPE to manage training is a completely different thing from just training by feel and intuition. I think using a heart rate monior will help you tran more effectively and, ultimately, enjoy it more. Ken
2005-10-27 7:00 AM
in reply to: #273121

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
The ideal approach is to use RPE in conjunction with HR during training. To design and follow a good training plan, you really need some way to meter your efforts during the workouts. RPE is good, on it's own, but it's very good when combined with a number (like HR). You should know that HR-training has it's own set of problems, which is why Power-based training is really becoming more prevelant these days. But given the cost and the (relatively) complicated nature of training with Power, HR remains the best compliment to RPE-based methods.

For cycling, you should really, really consider using an HRM in addition to RPE.
2005-10-27 2:30 PM
in reply to: #273185

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
Thanks for the replies. This helps clarify things for me. The HRM goes on to the Christmas list - I'll give it a go.

- Heidi


2005-10-27 7:06 PM
in reply to: #273521

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
Polar has a new chest strap that is basically fabric based. Looks very comfortable.

Mike
2005-10-28 3:24 PM
in reply to: #273121

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training

I used the HRM just for the runs. It's too inconsisten on the bike because you can coast and I haven't gotten into using a powermeter yet. I also came from a running background and didn't use a HR monitor religiously until this year. I use it strictly for the run portion of Triathlons, unless it's a sprint/oly/HIM triathlon, then I would take my time...

But HRM works best for the run and I do RPE on the bike...
2005-10-28 7:10 PM
in reply to: #273688

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
mprevost - 2005-10-27 5:06 PM
Polar has a new chest strap that is basically fabric based. Looks very comfortable.
Mike


My wife bought me a Polar F11 and it has the fabric chest strap. My first one so I didn't realize that all straps are not like this. I like it, never becomes uncomfortable.

That said, a HRM cleared for me what PRE and the training zones are all about, I was off a few! The first fitness test and wearing it cutting the grass (no not a power or rider wuss mower!) helped put things in perspective real quick!

Don



Edited by DRM 2005-10-28 7:11 PM
2005-10-28 9:15 PM
in reply to: #274330

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
DRM - 2005-10-28 5:10 PM

My wife bought me a Polar F11 and it has the fabric chest strap. My first one so I didn't realize that all straps are not like this. I like it, never becomes uncomfortable.



Thanks for mentioning the F11 - I think the fabric strap will be the deal for me. Also I like the fact that it has the OwnCode feature so I could use it in Spin class without risk of signal interference.

- Heidi
2005-10-31 7:00 AM
in reply to: #274376

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
hpadkisson - 2005-10-28 7:15 PM

Thanks for mentioning the F11 - I think the fabric strap will be the deal for me. Also I like the fact that it has the OwnCode feature so I could use it in Spin class without risk of signal interference.

- Heidi


Heidi,
If I were to buy it I would not purchase the F11. It does not have a lap feature which I use a lot of on my regular watch. So right now I'm always switching around watches, and the F11 is only being used when needed. I would rather have one watch with HR to wear. IIRC any HR with digital transmisison has signal protection encoding.

Don


2005-10-31 12:53 PM
in reply to: #274888

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Subject: RE: RPE vs. HR Training
Don, thanks for the tip. I had posted in the equipment forum about my plans to purchase the F11 and got feedback regarding the lack of a lap feature and the fact that the F11 can't be used for swimming. The suggested alternative was the S210 - entry level into the S-series.

- Heidi
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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » RPE vs. HR Training Rss Feed