Unable to get heart rate over 140

[SunsetRunner]

Hi! So I'm pretty new to exercise, I've always walked 6-12 miles a day, but no other exercise. My RHR is 64 and I'm in the healthy weight range. However I'm struggling to get my heart rate over 140- I find that at that point I'm gasping for breath (not just breathing hard, fully gasping and choking) and my legs start trembling pretty violently. Is this just because I'm new to exercise? It is normal and will it improve over time? It's infuriating because it means I'm barely managing more than 1-2 minutes of cardio with every workout and having to take tons of breaks. Should probably mention I'm also a smoker (about 10 years, although trying to quit!)

[Heybales]

Yes it's because you are new and a smoker.

And it can still improve over time. 

Though still limited compared to not smoking.

You can't take in as much oxygen as the body needs. Lung problem - not going to be improved much if at all while smoking and for years after.

You don't have the cardio system of perhaps enough red blood cells, mitochondria to deal with the oxygen, ect.

The zones are also based on a not-so-great average HRmax calculated from 220-age.

You may be no where near that number.

So in essence trying to reach a HR zone that is not correct for you.

Besides which - you can stick in the Fat Burning Zone, which the upper end of that may be your actual aerobic zone.

If you can talk a few words while breathing at a certain pace - that is likely your Aerobic zone.

If you can do a whole sentence without much problem, maybe even singing badly - that is the zone below.

You have described currently doing zone above, which is not useful to jump to.

What are you doing for workout BTW?

Keep at it - just less intensity.

[SunsetRunner]

Hi @SunsetRunner - I applaud your efforts! 6 - 12 miles a day is a lot of walking. But I’m concerned about the side effects you describe. You may want to start out a little slower. But if this situation continues, I’d recommend discussing it with your doctor. S/he can make sure your lungs are all right. 

[emili]

@SunsetRunner that is a lot of mileage on your feet- good for you! The rest is going to have to come down to not smoking. You can't make your body do what you want, without doing what it needs first. Your lungs need to recover before they can perform for you. Not to mention your heart. Smoking affects every molecular cell- blah blah- I am sure you know. Until you do it, everything will be more difficult for you to do. Sending good vibes your way to help you in your goal...