Walking no Longer reaching minimum zones

[rbs7189]

First time poster long time reader..... 

Have had my fitbit since July and have been using it to track walking sleeping etc - Have lost close to 50 pounds mostly just eating right and walking - about 4-5 miles on most days. However I've noticed that my normal walking routine isn't having the same impact from a heart beat standpoint, etc... my speed has increased over time - normally about 17:30 per mile - but it seems my walks are usually 85% or higher below zones at this point. Been working jogging in to balance out - but from a walking standpoint how do I get the HR back up? Is carrying weight effective? Or is it just a matter of going faster?

And is this an issue if it stays mostly below zones?

[JohnnyRow]

Without knowing which model Fitbit you are using,  the heart rate zone calculations have changed for some models.  It might be that you are still reaching the same heart rate, but the new calculations move those heart rates to below zone.

Look at your heart rate charts too see how they compare, not just zones.

[jargj]

Between the weight loss, the healthier diet, and your sustained activity-- it may be that walking alone just isn't enough to get your heart working hard anymore. This is a really good sign for your health! It does mean you're less likely to be burning fat from just walking alone. If you're wanting to increase the difficulty of walking again without picking up jogging or running, you could start combining other exercises with your walks. Eg, do a few lunges before crossing every street, rotate your arms & shoulders through their full range of motion, hold your arms out straight and rotate them, etc. There's a lot of things you can mix in. I'd play with a bunch of different movements and keep the ones you enjoy or which really work your muscles.

If there are hills or stairs you usually avoid, you could also try switching up your routine to stop avoiding them. My level of fitness: I can walk for several miles flat without stopping, but throw 4 consecutive flights of stairs in front of me and my heart is racing by the time I get to the top.

[rbs7189]

thanks so much! been starting to run(more like jog) and walk half and half around the track and that seems to be doing the trick! appreciate the help.

[emili]

@rbs7189 I would still check you HR graph for the activity. the active zones thing is different than active minutes. you don't accumulate them as quickly except for the first day of the week you have activity. But.. I totally support you changing things up and making it more challenging for yourself. just take care of those knees and feet!