1. What is Target Heart Rate?

The target heart rate is the ideal heart rate range you should aim for during exercise to maximize cardiovascular benefits. For women, it's calculated using a specific formula that accounts for age and exercise intensity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the women-specific formula:

Where:

• \( Age \) — Age in years
• \( Intensity Percentage \) — Exercise intensity as decimal (0.5 to 0.85)

Explanation: The equation first calculates maximum heart rate (206 - 0.88 × Age) then multiplies by the desired intensity percentage to get the target range.

3. Importance of Target Heart Rate

Details: Exercising within your target heart rate zone ensures you're working 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%) for moderate exercise and 0.85 (85%) for vigorous exercise.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the formula different for women?
A: Women typically have higher maximum heart rates than men, which is accounted for in this gender-specific formula.

Q2: What intensity percentage should I use?
A: Moderate exercise = 0.5-0.7, vigorous exercise = 0.7-0.85. Beginners should start at lower intensities.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate, but individual variations exist. Consider consulting a fitness professional for personalized advice.

Q4: When should I measure my exercise heart rate?
A: Check during peak exercise by briefly pausing to take your pulse or using a heart rate monitor.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: May be less accurate for elite athletes, pregnant women, or those on certain medications affecting heart rate.