1. What is Target Heart Rate?

The target heart rate is the desired range of heart rate achieved during exercise that enables the heart and lungs to receive the most benefit from a workout. This calculator provides the target heart rate for men based on age and exercise intensity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( 220 - \text{Age} \) — Estimated maximum heart rate
• \( \text{Intensity Percentage} \) — Exercise intensity as decimal (typically 0.5 to 0.85)

Explanation: The formula calculates the ideal heart rate range for effective cardiovascular exercise based on age and desired intensity level.

3. Importance of Target Heart Rate

Details: Maintaining your heart rate in the target zone ensures you're exercising at the right intensity to improve cardiovascular fitness without overexertion.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your age in years and select an intensity percentage between 0.5 (50%) and 0.85 (85%). Moderate-intensity exercise is typically 50-70% of maximum heart rate, while vigorous exercise is 70-85%.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the formula different for women?
A: Women typically have higher maximum heart rates, so a gender-specific formula (226 - Age) is sometimes used.

Q2: What are typical intensity percentages?
A: Beginners: 50-60%, Intermediate: 60-70%, Advanced: 70-85% of maximum heart rate.

Q3: How accurate is the 220 - Age formula?
A: It's a general estimate. Individual maximum heart rates can vary by ±10-20 beats per minute.

Q4: When should I measure my exercise heart rate?
A: Check pulse during peak exercise, counting beats for 15 seconds and multiplying by 4.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: Not suitable for people on certain medications (like beta blockers) or with specific heart conditions.