FIT for sound to narrows

Training Program 

The most successful training program is one that is designed properly.  Your training program must balance a progressive training schedule with rest.  By following the principles of proper frequency, intensity, and duration, you will learn to train at the level that is best for you. 

How to Develop a Training Program: 

Frequency 

Frequency refers to the number of days per week that you will train.  At least three and up to five sessions each week is recommended for the best results.  Injuries are more likely to occur when exercising six to seven times each week.  Less than three times each wee is not likely to produce the results you want.  However, any amount is better than no training at all if you plan to participate in Sound to Narrows. 

Intensity

Intensity refers to how hard you are exercising.  This is measured by how fast your heart is beating.  The heart rate at which you will exercise is known as your TARGET HEART RATE (THR).  Your THR will be in the range of 60-85% of your heart rate reserve.  Heart rate reserves take into account your resting pulse to figure out your THR.  The following guidelines will help you determine at which THR range you should begin: 

  • 50-65% Sedentary Lifestyle- -- no regular exercise 

  • 60-75% Moderately Fit – exercises one to two times a week, very recently began a regular exercise program, or exercises for less than 20 minutes per exercise session. 

  • 70-85% Very Fit – exercises aerobically three or more times a week for at least 20 minutes and has been doing so for at least three months consistently. 

Please read carefully the section titled “Learn about your Heart Rate (Pulse)” and use the chart to determine your THR. 

Remember: When your body adapts to the stress of exercise, adding a slight additional stress is necessary to achieve additional results.  Therefore, very gradually increase your THR up to 85% (there is no need to go beyond 85%; in may only hinder your efforts).  Spend several weeks at each THR range before increasing. 

Duration: To derive aerobic training benefits, you should work up to at last 15-20 minutes of exercise while maintaining your THR.  Spend five minutes gradually getting your THR (warm-up) and five minutes gradually decreasing from your THR after the exercise (cool-down).  Never abruptly stop exercising.