Is a Heart Rate of 230 Abnormal During Treadmill Running?

Avoid a Rate of 230
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Written by William McCoy

08 July, 2011

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Using a treadmill is an effective way to improve your cardiovascular fitness, but you must always exercise within moderation. Elevating your heart rate excessively can lead to serious health repercussions. Before you step on the treadmill for your next workout, familiarize yourself with how to use the machine's heart rate monitor or get acquainted with checking your own pulse to ensure you keep your heart rate at a safe level. Always consult a doctor before beginning this or any exercise regimen.

Avoid a Rate of 230

Although your heart rate increases as you walk or run on a treadmill, it should never approach 230 beats per minute. This heart rate is extremely high, even for a young person with a high maximum heart rate. The American Heart Association notes a 20-year-old person has a maximum heart rate of 200 beats per minute 2 3. Regardless of your age, your heart rate during exercise should be significantly lower than 230 beats per minute.

Although your heart rate increases as you walk or run on a treadmill, it should never approach 230 beats per minute.
Regardless of your age, your heart rate during exercise should be significantly lower than 230 beats per minute.

Speak to Your Doctor

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You'd have to run with an extremely high level of exertion to raise your heart rate to 230 beats per minute, but taking certain medications in conjunction with strenuous exercise can result in a dangerously high heart rate. Medication for thyroid conditions, for example, can result in an increase in your heart rate. Speak to your doctor about how your medication might affect your heart.