Marion Freijsen A blog about Sports, Fitness & Health

Max Training

Having written about testing your maximum heart rate a little while ago, it occurred to me that it had actually been a long time since I did check it myself. In fact, I soon enough discovered it was 6 years ago! I have always trained and roughly know my limits but still – it’s good to test your max more regularly then every 6 years since your age changes (arrggh) and your circumstances change too. So to keep your training at the most effective levels, do a check once every 2 years or so at a minimum and set yourself a benchmark to mark progress against.

So today was the day for me – I use Coen van Schijndel’s company “Topvorm” in the Netherlands since he is one of these people that apart from testing you, really knows how to motivate you in doing so. He also works out like mad himself so you feel you are in the right hands. Apart from the testing, Coen can generate 3 monthly training programs for you which he mails to you and can correct at any time. These are tailored to you, based on your test results on the one hand, taking into account how much you can do time-wise and what your goals are on the other hand. So a taylor made package that will get you stronger in the least amount of time. Coen is a definite must for those of you lucky enough to be in the Netherlands – but I am sure there are more “coens” out there in different countries if you are not. Just make sure you pick someone that is qualified, knows what they are talking about and comes as highly recommended preferably by someone you know.

Off I went this morning, with a little trepidation knowing I not only had I not tested my performance levels for so long- but also that I obviously have aged 6 years in the process… but to my immense relief I wasn’t just AS fit, I was actually fitter AND leaner (less body fat) then I was 6 years ago…

Now that should inspire anyone out there doubting that you can keep your fitness at a good level as you get older!! 

Coen can be reached at info@topvorm.com, or see his site: www.topvorm.com for more information and further contact details.

Music to accompany your max test: Burn, Baby, Burn – the Hit Crew