Running at 185 bpm and above?

Question
Hi!  I am a male, 33yo, 190lbs, beginner-to-intermediate runner.  I磛e already run two half-marathons, and I am in relatively good shape.

My question is: when I run (whether it磗 short or long runs), my heart rate easily goes above my "theoretical max" of 159 beats-per-minute.  In fact, it can easily go as high as 180-185 bpm, even though I run at about an 11 min/mile pace.  I do use a Polar HRM to keep track.

I am afraid this might be risky, however, I feel absolutely no discomfort, I do finish my runs pretty tired, but nothing unusual.  For example, I did a half marathon and I was at approx. 185bpm during all of the last 8 miles, and I felt OK.

Should I worry?  or is my heart-rate OK?

Answer
dear alejandro
first your theoretical max based on your age is 187 not 159.eases formula is 220 minus your age.this is just a ball park but ok to develope training perimeters to train and race by.most of your training outside of speed work or tempo runs should be in the range of 65 to 75 percent of max......your heart rate is fine based on what you described to me.racing at near your max is normal function but training should be at the lower levels as i discused earlier.except for speed tempo fartlek hill training etc.the one thing you did not tell me was your height.190 is ok if your 6.2 to 6.4 and all muscle.i would recomend you get your body fat measured then you know where you stand.
hope this helps make you feel more secure alejandro.anything else keep in touch.good luck to you.

John DeHart
rentacoachinternational
albuquerque new mexico