Schwinn 431 - Manual (Page 16)

2 Custom User-defined Programs
These programs enable you to set up, store into memory and then work out
in 2 different course profiles that you customize.
Time Trial
This program enables you to work out against a “pacer” to determine how
long it takes you to cover a preset distance. You preset the speed of the
“pacer” as the baseline of your workout and race to the end of the preset
distance. At the end of the Time Trial, the computer displays the watts,
distance, speed, etc. that you have achieved.
Fitness Test
The Fitness Test is one of the best ways to measure improvements in your
physical fitness level. The test measures your fitness by comparing your
power output (in Watts) to your Heart Rate. In general, as you become
“more fit,” you will produce more power (Watts) at a given Heart Rate.
Here is how the test measures your power and heart rate. As the test starts,
the power (watts) slowly increases. This means that you will work harder,
and as a result, your heart rate increases. The watts continue to increase
automatically until your heart rate reaches the “Test Zone.” This zone is indi-
vidually calculated for each user to be near 75% of their estimated maximum
heart rate. (This "Maximum Heart Rate" is computed from the information
you input into the computer when you start the program. These number val-
ues are different for everyone.) When you reach the Test Zone, the elliptical
holds the watts steady for 3 minutes to allow you to achieve a steady heart
rate state. It is important to concentrate on keeping a steady heart rate dur-
ing these 3 minutes to ensure consistent and more accurate readings.
At the end of the three minutes, the computer measures your Heart Rate,
and the power (Watts). These numbers (along with information about your
age and weight) are put into a formula, and produce a “Fitness Score.”
By logging and noticing the change in your own fitness scores, you can see
your progress to increased fitness. The higher your score, the higher your fit-
ness level. For example, let’s say you have an initial fitness score of 28. Four
weeks later you perform the test again and your score is 35. This means
you have increased your fitness. Your power output has increased and at the
same time your heart rate has decreased. You are producing more power
with less effort.
Note: The Fitness Test is an excellent way to measure changes in your own
fitness level. It is not designed to compare one person’s score to another
person’s score, because the test's formula only “estimates” your Maximum
Heart Rate. Therefore the numbers are only relevant when compared with
your own fitness scores. (There are no corresponding "absolute" numbers in
the owner’s manual that you can reference to see what your fitness level is.)
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