Newsroom Hospital for Special Surgery

Everything you need to know about your average running heart rate and how it compares to others

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:32:00 -0400

Runner's World reported on what you need to know about your average running heart rate and how it compares to others, featuring insight from Vikas Shahi, MD, primary sports medicine physician at HSS.

Thanks to the proliferation of smartwatches and fitness trackers, it’s never been easier to log your heart rate while running: Simply don the device, start your workout, and watch those beats per minute (bpm) do their thing.

If you’re trying to stay within a certain heart rate range while running, you need to figure out your maximum heart rate, Dr. Shahi said. The 'quick and dirty' formula for doing so is 220 minus your age, he explained. So, a 60-year-old’s max heart rate would be 160, for example. However, a slightly more accurate method is multiplying your age by 0.7 and then subtracting that number from 207. So, by that measure, a 60-year-old’s max heart rate would be 165.

Dr. Shahi suggests checking in with a doctor if your running heart rate is always high despite not taking caffeine beforehand and despite being in relatively good shape, especially if it’s been going on for months. "That’s a good reason to go see a doctor," he said.

Read the full article at runnersworld.com. A subscription is required to access.

Is Your Average Heart Rate Too High When You’re Running?

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:43:00 -0400

Runners World reports that thanks to the proliferation of smartwatches and fitness trackers, it’s never been easier to log your heart rate while running: Simply don the device, start your workout, and watch those beats per minute (bpm) do their thing. And while the only numbers that truly matter are yours, it’s natural to wonder how your stats stack up to other athletes.

Experts including Vikas Shahi, MD, sports medicine physician at HSS share what’s “normal” when it comes to heart rate while running, as well as how to use this metric to improve performance.

If you’re trying to stay within a certain heart rate range while running, you need to figure out your maximum heart rate, Dr. Shahi said. The “quick and dirty” formula for doing so is 220 minus your age, he explained. So, a 60-year-old’s max heart rate would be 160, for example. However, a slightly more accurate method is multiplying your age by 0.7 and then subtracting that number from 207. So, by that measure, a 60-year-old’s max heart rate would be 165.

Read the full article at runnersworld.com.

6 Surprising Benefits of Running Every Day, Plus What to Know Before You Try It

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 17:41:00 -0500

In an interview with Well+Good, Vikas Shahi, MD, sports medicine physician at HSS, shares the benefits of running everyday and what you need to know before you try it.

People who love run streaks find there’s a lot they get out of running every day, both physically and mentally.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends adults get a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise like easy running at least five days a week. Dr. Shahi says this can improve your heart health and lower your blood pressure. “Running is a fantastic form of cardiovascular exercise,” he explained. “It makes your body more robust.”

Read the full article at wellandgood.com.