Heart Rate and Speed: Tracking Kayak Training

Hey, young athletes! Ever wondered how your heart rate responds to your kayaking speed and power? Well, let's dive into a study that explored these connections. Nine top kayakers were monitored during their interval training sessions, ranging from easy to super challenging levels. Their heart rates, speeds, and power outputs were recorded, along with how tired they felt and their blood lactate levels. Researchers tested different models to see which combination of data—speed or power, simple or complex models, whether training was on water or using a machine—best predicted heart rate changes. The results? The best models were simple ones that considered how the training changed over time. These models could accurately predict heart rates, with some even hitting a 94% match! This info can really help trainers adjust workouts to make athletes even better.