Maybe its already been discussed but getting a true apples to apples comparison of heart rate over time is tough for me. For it to be meaningful it should be longer in duration. Its amazing how power to heart rate is linked to temperature. In a single ride, I can watch my HR drop at the end of a ride as the sun goes down with same power. On longer rides 3+ hrs in any kind of heat, dehydration will drive heart rate as well. In the summer starting at dawn the HR climbs as it gets hotter. I dont know how you can eliminate all of these external factors unless you are able to be in a controlled environment where your core temp and hydration can be maintained. Anecdotally, my HR recovery gets quicker as I get fitter. Dont know if it really is a function of aerobic fitness though.
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