I don’t know about the research behind the Northwestern formula, but it seems to be about as useful as the standard male-based one (i.e., not very). When I apply the 206-(age x .88) formula to myself it gives a max HR of 154, which I can surpass with just moderate effort. Like the standard formula, probably the main caveat is “average” — it’s statistically based, so it would be most accurate for a woman of “average age” (whatever that is, but probably much younger than I am) and “average fitness.” Given that most of the population in the U.S. can’t run for even 30 minutes, it’s pretty likely anyone using Uphill Athlete is well outside the average range.

Hey Mgoat — Whereabouts are you located? I too was happy to see a women’s forum here.

I’m a 58 year old novice climber (about a year) and just started learning mountaineering skills this past summer. I’ve always been active and athletic but I’m now working to develop my uphill endurance (I’m an oceanographer by profession — other end of the altitude spectrum!) I’d love to connect with some other people training here with similar interests. My goals are modest — I’m just fascinated by snow and ice and came this –>| |<– close to doing arctic tundra research before I was lured into the deep ocean. Now I’m semi-retired and itching to explore — especially our fast retreating glaciers.

I live in San Diego, but visit Washington state regularly too (parents). Was just up there to do an AIARE course but it was lack-of-snowed out! 🙁

This is a huge problem in medicine, studies being done on men/boys and we learn 20 years later that “X” illness actually present much differently in women. Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are a prime example. I’m sure sport science is not immune to it, I wonder what % of the data comes from white males. Obviously, it’s all theoretical since the basic principles of training are pretty robust and common sense. But it really highlights how important is to adjust to how you feel rather than following generic formulas and prescriptions.

@ Sally : I’m 30 but I can totally relate. I initially bought this book out of scientific curiosity, because I wound’t see myself as one of these people, the motivated, organized, athletic type. And look at me now, just ordered a HR armband and Training Peaks subscription. Because data is fun! And it’s a good way to trick myself into exercising regularly, not just when it’s nice out and I have something interesting to climb or a new trail to ride. Hiking comes very naturally to me no matter how steep or long the trail is, but I’ve been hitting a wall during splitboard season the last few years. I’m starting to understand why rather than just jumping to conclusions “I’m just not an athlete, why even bother training”.