HR vs speed graph — what can I learn?
Written By KULG App
Last updated 11 months ago
KULG HR vs speed graph shows how the average heart rate compares to the average pace on your runs over time and your average run power (W) if your watch tracks that.
HR vs speed
HR vs speed is a simple and useful way of monitoring your heart rate and pace trends and helps you understand how efficiently your body is working. The higher the HR vs speed ratio is (i.e. trending up), the faster you run at the same heart rate.
Follow the trend 📈
It is better to look at the overall trend line of HR vs speed rather than follow specific numbers. Keep in mind, that since heart rate is highly individual, HR vs speed ratio is also highly individual and can be compared in the context of the same runner, not to others. HR vs speed tends to be lower in certain conditions (cold, snow, extreme heat, trails, high altitude) and higher with more high intensity training. That’s where tracking power is useful.
NB! Daily option is available if the selected time frame is within 6 months and weekly if it’s within 1 year.
Tips to understand progress 💡
→ Check your HR vs speed by different types of running activities and longer time frames (e.g. monthly, quarterly, annually) to get insights on your long-term running progress.
→ If the HR vs speed trend line is going up, you are running faster at the same heart rate, indicating that your aerobic fitness is improving.
→ If your HR vs speed is going down, it may be a sign of fatigue. Consider how your context may have impacted the trend and compare it to your feeling and perceived effort.
Power
Power is a similar metric because it lets you track the amount of work you're doing while running, reflecting the intensity of your effort. It is useful in conditions that affect your pace, such as training in hilly terrain, on trails, or in extreme temperatures like heat, cold, or at high altitude.
Data accuracy ⌚️
Most GPS watches estimate power based on pace, heart rate, and other variables. Running power is not directly measured. Dedicated power meters like Stryd are more accurate.