Heart Rate - SkiErg vs Running or Cycling

[be.ar]

I've been using a skierg for around a year (I'm mostly a cyclist and runner, got the skierg for cross-training and to keep my upper body ready for when I go XC skiing). I've noticed that my heart rate for a given RPE on my skierg is around 20 bpm lower than what it would be for cycling or running. For example, during a 5K, I might top out a little above 160 bpm, whereas I'd be above 180 bpm easily cycling or running (for the equivalent amount of time).

I imagine that a lot of this has to do with differences in active muscle mass between the disciplines, but I wonder to what extent this might reflect poor technique or "just not trying hard enough". Does anyone have any thoughts on the matter?

Thanks!

[hjs]

I've been using a skierg for around a year (I'm mostly a cyclist and runner, got the skierg for cross-training and to keep my upper body ready for when I go XC skiing). I've noticed that my heart rate for a given RPE on my skierg is around 20 bpm lower than what it would be for cycling or running. For example, during a 5K, I might top out a little above 160 bpm, whereas I'd be above 180 bpm easily cycling or running (for the equivalent amount of time).

I imagine that a lot of this has to do with differences in active muscle mass between the disciplines, but I wonder to what extent this might reflect poor technique or "just not trying hard enough". Does anyone have any thoughts on the matter?

Thanks!

Think it simply is a matter of it being a not using all muscle kind of machine. I don,t track my Hf, but the skierg, apart from very short sprints is relative less hard. Recovery is also quicker after sessions.
On snow ski is much more using the legs, so easier to get the hf up.

[Robert57]

I bought Ski Erg last month to complement trail run training. Greg in customer service recommended starting a variable interval workout. So I’m doing a 1000M-900-800-.... down to 100M w kettlebell swings in between. Resistance set @ approx 3-1/2. Been starting out w low 100’s HR with the longer interval distances building to low 130’s HR with shorter intervals. Any comments or guidance appreciated. My eventual goal is a ski marathon. I’m 57

[kini62]

I bought Ski Erg last month to complement trail run training. Greg in customer service recommended starting a variable interval workout. So I’m doing a 1000M-900-800-.... down to 100M w kettlebell swings in between. Resistance set @ approx 3-1/2. Been starting out w low 100’s HR with the longer interval distances building to low 130’s HR with shorter intervals. Any comments or guidance appreciated. My eventual goal is a ski marathon. I’m 57

I'm the same age. Anyway you'll need a lot more skierg meters to be able to do a full marathon. Start by upping the distances like do some 2K intervals, then do a 5K, 6K, 30 minute etc...

[flatbread]

My HR zone 2 (5 zone system) is 120-134. I had no problem holding steady at 125 today for an hour on the SkiErg. Hinge your hips, good elbow bend and drive, high-ish rate (~40). That's the same HR I would aim for on a steady state row or ride.

Granted, this was my first workout on the thing, but I think it's just a matter of good technique and turnover.