How to Get the Best Out of Your Indoor Cycling Exercises Without a Heart Rate Monitor

I used my heart rate monitor to help get the most out of my workouts, as well as to train with. My dog decided that the tart smell of "salt" was a good reason to destroy my monitor and strap. Being a poor college student, sometimes dropping $30.00 to $50.00 is hard to do. So, I came up with an effective way to ensure that I was working out just as hard. Not only is money an issue when using monitors, being a new member at the local gym can be a concern too. Some are not as willing to say that they do not know what they are doing, and eventually let fear overcome their workouts. So, listen up, with this sample workout, you can get in shape and be proud of your results.

First of all, let me define a few terms and conditions we will use with this workout. The way you will determine how hard you are working, is by your breathing. When one is tested for their Maximum Heart Rate: Your maximum heart rate (Max HR) is a specific number, the maximum number of contractions per minute that your heart can make. Sally Edwards, please read the following to understand more about MHR:http://www.howtobefit.com/determine-maximum-heart-rate.htm, they will determine how they "feel" by estimating their breathing from 1-10. 1 being still asleep in bed where 10 meaning that you are being chased by a car and you're running for your life and feel like your heart will explode. These are the standards that we are going to use when following the excercise. If you are interested in seeing what your maximum heart rate is, go to http://www.brianmac.demon.co.uk/maxhr.htm and you can determine a rate to follow, but be advised, it more than likely won't be your real MHR.

Next, we will have to prepare for the indoor cycling session. This can be at home on your trainer, or in the gym. First of all, the proper attire. As long as you have comfortable gym clothes and athletic tennis shoes you will be fine. To make your riding experience more pleasant, you might want to invest in a pair of riding shorts. These shorts have chamois padding that makes for a smooth ride. Besides comfortable clothing, don't forget to bring your i-pod with motivating music and lots of water.