Originally Posted by terrymorse
There are many distractions on a trail that prevent maintaining a high intensity effort for an extended amount of time.
Does a higher HR mean a better workout? Only if high HR is your training goal for that session.
Other than "pretend" xc mtb races where I'm just trying to simulate a race, I'd prefer to control my HR during the workout... much much much easier on the road.
ever try a recovery ride off-road? it won't happen!