Staying in Heart Rate Monitor Training Zones

I have trouble staying in Zone 1 when running outside. I feel like I am running as slowly as I possibly can and my heart rate is in Zone 2.

It's easier to control on the treadmill.

What does this mean?



Answer by Dominique:
Hi there,
Thanks for your question about your heart rate monitor training zones.

I don't think there is a reason to get worried.

(For people reading along check out this heart rate monitor training page to learn more about the heart rate monitor training zones.)

Running in Zone 1 simply requires slow running, you sometimes almost feel like you are standing still or need to start walking. When running out in the open air it is very easy to start running a little faster than your heart rate zone allows you to.

When on a treadmill you can control your speed more easily. As such it is simply easier to keep on running slowly and stay in the right heart rate monitor training zone.

Knowing this you might decide to do your Zone 1 runs on the treadmill. Unfortunately these are usually your long runs.

You can do it, but being on the treadmill for hours at a time can make you feel like a rodent! And it is often not great for the treadmill's motor as well.

Anyway, do not worry about it too much, it's just one of those things impossible to get away from!

Enjoy your running.
Cheers,
Dominique