Aerobic training – Cardiology MCQ – Answer

Target heart rate for aerobic training is:
Correct answer: c) 70% of maximum predicted heart rate
Aerobic exercises are those which stresses the oxygen transport system while resistance exercises stress the musculoskeletal system. Target heart rate for aerobic training is 70 percent of the maximum predicted heart rate. Maximum predicted heart rate is 220-age of the individual.
While doing a treadmill exercise test often we aim at above 90% of the maximum predicted heart rate. But when a treadmill test is done for risk stratification soon after myocardial infarction (pre-discharge; seldom done in this era of early invasive management), only a target heart rate of 70% of maximum predicted heart rate is aimed.
During aerobic training the target heart rate is kept at only 70% because it is not possible to maintain maximum predicted heart rate without exhaustion. In treadmill test the maximum predicted heart rate is achieved only for a short period of time at peak exercise and then the cooling down recovery phase follows. But in aerobic training, the target heart rate is maintained through out the regular training period which could be 30 – 40 minutes. Aerobic training also starts at a lower level with a warming period and is followed by a cooling period. Sudden stoppage of intense physical activity can theoretically even precipitate significant cardiac arrhythmia.

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