Maximum Heart Rate Formula:
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Maximum Heart Rate (Max HR) is the highest heart rate an individual can achieve during maximal physical exertion. The most common formula to estimate it is 220 minus age.
The calculator uses the simple Max HR equation:
Where:
Explanation: This formula provides a general estimate of maximum heart rate which declines with age.
Details: Knowing your maximum heart rate helps determine appropriate exercise intensity levels and target heart rate zones for training.
Tips: Simply enter your age in years. The value must be between 1 and 120.
Q1: How accurate is the 220-age formula?
A: It's a general estimate with standard deviation of about 10-12 bpm. Individual variations exist.
Q2: Are there alternative formulas?
A: Yes, some suggest 208 - (0.7 × age) or 211 - (0.64 × age) which may be more accurate for certain populations.
Q3: What affects maximum heart rate?
A: Primarily age, but also fitness level, genetics, medications, and altitude can influence it.
Q4: Should I exercise at my maximum heart rate?
A: Generally no - most training should be done at 50-85% of your max HR depending on goals.
Q5: How is this different from resting heart rate?
A: Resting HR is your heart rate at complete rest (typically 60-100 bpm), while max HR is the highest possible during exertion.