1. What is Target Heart Rate Zone?

The Target Heart Rate (THR) zone is the range of heartbeats per minute that aims to maximize cardiovascular benefits during exercise. For cardio training, this is typically 60-80% of your maximum heart rate.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• 220 - age — Estimated maximum heart rate
• 0.6 — Lower bound of cardio zone (60% of max HR)
• 0.8 — Upper bound of cardio zone (80% of max HR)

Explanation: This formula provides a simple way to estimate your ideal heart rate range for cardiovascular exercise.

3. Importance of Target Heart Rate

Details: Exercising within your target heart rate zone ensures you're working hard enough to improve cardiovascular fitness, but not so hard that you risk overexertion.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your age in years (must be between 1-120). The calculator will show your estimated target heart rate zone for cardio exercise.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use 220-age for max heart rate?
A: It's a simple estimation that works reasonably well for most people, though individual variations exist.

Q2: Are there more accurate formulas?
A: Yes, the Tanaka formula (208 - 0.7 × age) may be more accurate for older adults.

Q3: What if my heart rate is below the zone?
A: You may not be exercising intensely enough for optimal cardiovascular benefits.

Q4: What if my heart rate is above the zone?
A: You may be working too hard and should consider reducing intensity.

Q5: Should everyone use the same zone?
A: Beginners may need to start at 50-70% of max HR and gradually increase intensity.