heart rate while running

Question
QUESTION: I am a 49 old male, 6 ft, 190 lbs.  I started wearing a heart rate monitor and when I go for a 6 mile run in around 55 minutes, my heart rate is in the 160 to 175 range.  I just started running again two weeks ago and am doing this run 3 times a week trying to get ready for a half marathon March 1.  This is not my top speed (close) but I am concerned how high my heart rate gets and would appreciate any advise!

ANSWER: What exactly are you concerned about...?

Your heart rate after the run is close to maximum for you. I do not reccomend this. First off, it's bad for your training. If you are only running half the distance on your training run than the distance you're training to race, your heart rate needs to be kinda fast. But not maximum, by all means. When you are running closer to the distance you're racing, your heart rate needs to be slow. Long Slow Distance.

If the only reason your heart rate is high is because you are running fast at the end of your 6 miler, it's okay. But don't run the 6 miles too fast. You'll burn out quickly.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I started running 6 miles and am ready to add distance.  I understand I am at my max at 171 bpm, but I feel comfortable at that pace.  I do not get short of breath until it goes up to about 177-178.  Is this simply because I am out of shape?  How do I make my heart rate slower without slowing down my pace?

Answer
The only way your heart rate is less at x distance is if your body adjusts to the pace, distance, speed; in other words, getting better. When you've trained for long enough, your heart rate will start going down on this 6 mile run because you've more endurance, so your heart doesn't need to try as hard.

The fact that your heart rate is at maximum doesn't mean you're out of shape per se, only that the 6 miles at the pace your running is about maximum for you. You can't increase the speed at that distance, nor can you increase the distance at the same speed.

I think your thinking about adding distance is good, but I don't think you need to look at heart rate for the answer. I think you need to look at over training, and if you feel like you need to kick up the distance a notch, if you feel it wouldn't burn you out. Look at your goal, and if it requires more distance work, and you feel you can do it without burning out, go for it.