> Also consider that taking on strenuous exercise when you haven't done it in a while is going to cause elevated heart rates, beyond what your previous normal h

> Also consider that taking on strenuous exercise when you haven't done it in a while is going to cause elevated heart rates, beyond what your previous normal heart rate was during that exercise. Regular exercise will also eventually lower your resting heart rate. I think "starting a new strenuous exercise regimen" (because yes, after a year's break, that counts as "new") would also be unsurprisingly linked to elevated heart rates, even resting. Yes, that was my first thought too while reading the comment. A lower heartrate during exercise and resting is a strong fitness indicator. And pausing your exercises for a year significantly reduces your fitness. Of course you will see elevated heart rates.