I have the opposite problem. I race at 8 min/mile but my HR never exceeds 156 bpm, and believe me, I am not "comfortable" at that pace either.

I researched my issue and I think the answer I found applies to you. Apparently, I might just have a naturally low HR, which means I have a high stroke volume. So my heart pumps more slowly, but pumps more blood. Possibly you have a naturally high HR, so you have a low stroke volume, and this may be genetically determined.

Over time, your HR should decrease with further training as your heart becomes more efficient as the muscle strengthens. Are you doing high intensity intervals? Doing some alternating between high and low speeds may also help.

Now, if someone has advice for me on how to increase my HR... My worry is that I'm not working hard enough during my races, but the discomfort is preventing me from running faster.

I have the same problem, but only with running, not biking, swimming, weight, etc... I spent a fair amount of time in the mountains shortly after college, and the altitude actually seemed to allow me to have a lower HR for the same pace, and running was much more comfortable then, but as soon as I was back to sea level (or about), my HR returned to 185ish average. Other than that, nothing has seemed to help me either (I've tried 1-3)

I have the exact same problem and have found no resolution - doctors have been involved and at the end of the many, many tests I've had it was decided that it's just "one of those things". Some of us will have a higher hr.

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I know I'm promiscuous, but in a classy way

Thanks for the reply. It is very frustrating because running is a chore. I can bike, take classes, etc. and my HR is under control. It is very perplexing. It just doesn't seem right that I can sustain a HR in the 180s for 2+ hours. My fellow tri and running friends think I am a freak. If I find something that works, I will be sure to post it.

What's your resting HR?

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*Anne*

Low 50s.

Me too!!

My HR is normally between 160-180 for running.

My issue is a am now pregnant and my resting HR has gone up massively (20bpm) so trying to keep my HR somewhat under control when running is now ridiculous- I just shuffle :(

Good luck with your pregnancy! Hopefully the craziness of pregnancy will adjust your HR post pregnancy. Many of my friends became better runners after they had children!

I am going to try one more thing, The Maffetone Method. I figure my racing season is almost over and the fall and winter are a perfect opportunity to try something new. It worked for Mark Allen, so it is worth a try. Has anybody tried this method and had success?

I have the same issue in regard to high heart rate only when running. Low resting HR too. I have thyroid issues and noticed that when my meds are right this affects my heart rate, which still remains high for running, but it brings my perceived effort back into line (not that I'm saying running isn't still hard-it's just a bit easier on the perceived effort side). Perhaps you should have your thyroid checked just to be sure?

Thanks for the idea. My mom actually has thyroid issues (hypo), so it is worth getting tested.

This is to the OP. Are you worried just because the arbitrary number of 180 seems high,or are you gasping out of breath at any running pace.

From what you are saying, that you can run long at 180, suggests that you aren't gasping for breath and maybe you just have a high hr? HR is very individual and just bc your friend has never seen anything above 170 doesn't mean anything for you.

I get into the 190s or higher on a 5k or steep hill so my hr tends to run higher than most at slower paces too

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http://bethanyrutledge.com

(2) Controlling my breathing - inhaling through the nose, exhaling through the mouth


Have you tried inhaling and exhaling both through the mouth? You'll get in more oxygen and might find it easier to run.

x2
I can't imagine running inhaling through just my nose!

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maybe she's born with it, maybe it's chlorine
If you're injured and need some sympathy, PM me and I'm very happy to write back.
disclaimer: PhD not MD