Heart rate monitors - sprint to success!

Heart rate monitors can be used to specifically train the body's 'fast twitch muscles' which help to develop speed for short periods of time - perfect for sprinters and short distance runners. Having a faster or slower twitch muscle fibres could determine which sports you excel in, and which ones you are less successful in. Many people don't realise that their muscles are composed of two different types. Slow-twitch fibres will give you the stamina to endure aerobic exercise for a long period of time, whilst fast-twitch ones give your body short bursts of power and strength. Heart rate monitors can be used to train different muscle types to achieve different athletic results.

Mechanics Behind the Muscle

Fast-twitch is a 'type 2' muscle, and uses anaerobic metabolism to generate explosive strength and speed. Although there is a lot of power fuelled in a short period of time, they fatigue much quicker, making them ideal for sprinters, short distance runners, and athletes who need short bursts of energy, quick!

Fast-twitch fibres produce the same amount of force per contraction as slower ones, but like their name suggests, they are able to do it more quickly. If you would like to train this particular area of your body, using a heart rate monitor will help you target your energy.

Heart Rate Monitors for Intensive Workouts

Heart rate training zones are calculated by measuring your MHR (maximum heart rate) and your RHR (resting heart rate). There are different zones that will enhance your fitness in the targeted areas suited to your sport. If you want to get optimum results with heart rate monitors, here are some tips that may help:

• Sprint at 85 per cent effort during training sessions.

• Hops, bounds, skips and leaps will challenge the fast twitch fibre to produce more force.

• Make time for weight training as research shows there is a direct link between maximum strength and overall speed.

• Eat a healthy, balanced meal with plenty of protein as this will encourage healing and growth.

• Choose heart rate monitors and sporting equipment from trustworthy suppliers for accurate results.

• Heart Rate Monitors on the Red.

The 'red' zone is calculated at 90 per cent to 100 per cent with a heart rate monitor, and suited to only the very fittest of athletes. This kind of training will effectively develop your fast twitch muscle fibres and increase your power, strength and speed.

Fitsense Sports

At Fitsense Sports, we stock a range of equipment to help you improve your training results, as well as plenty of information on the best way to organise your programme. We sell great quality, affordable heart rate monitors from leading manufacturers, and we can tell you everything you need to know in order to decide which monitor to buy. Take the time to browse our site and buy securely online, or call us on 01949 898 205 to speak to our customer service team.