When working out at the gym, it seems obvious that the machine heart rate programs should be a one-size-fits-all wonder. I hate to break it to you but that is not always the case. In actuality, the majority of the time it isn't. Research has shown that gym-goers tend to under train when following the present programs that are based on only age and weight.

The best way to track your heart rate is to use your own monitor strap. If you do not have one, you could use the machine's heart rate monitor function to define your own personal zones and what works best for your body. To find your individual zone follow these quick tips to become your own fat-burning power house.

Begin your sweat session at a low-intensity fat-burning pace for about five minutes that gets your ticker pumping. After that, measure your heart rate using your pulse rate on your wrist or neck and write down that number. Next, push it up to a more endurance-training pace that is challenging, yet you can still carry on a conversation. Record your heart rate again. Finally, ramp up the intensity even further to a performance training pace that is uncomfortable in the sense that you cannot talk or maintain the pace for more than 30 seconds. Record your heart rate one last time. These numbers all help to define your true heart-rate zones. By keeping track of these numbers it will help you to improve your own fitness level and burn extra calories. Try to alternate between low-and high-intensity days for more well-balanced training.