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Health TopicsFitnessTypes Of Exercise ProgramsCardiovascular Training
question

What are the benefits of the peak heart rate zone in cardio training?

Dr. Mike Clark, DPT
Dr. Mike Clark, DPT
Fitness
answer
Working in your peak heart rate zone in cardiovascular training helps increase your anaerobic threshold (AT), the point at which your energy sources move from utilizing a higher percentage of fat to utilizing a higher percentage of carbohydrates. It also increases the caloric burn during and after exercise. Raising your AT increases your aerobic base (i.e., making your heart more efficient at higher heart rates), allowing you to work harder (i.e., burn more calories overall) and still burn a high percentage of fat as fuel.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.