Target Heart Rate Calculator

Calculate your maximum heart rate (MHR) and 5 cardiovascular exercise training zones (Fat Burn, Aerobic, Anaerobic, VO2 Max) using the Karvonen formula.

Calculator Inputs

yrs
Age defines theoretical maximum heart rate.
bpm
Morning pulse taken right after waking.
Clinical MHR estimation method.

Calculated Results

Maximum Heart Rate (HRmax)
190 bpm
Fat Burn Zone (60%–70%) 138 – 151 bpm
Aerobic Cardio Zone (70%–80%) 151 – 164 bpm
Anaerobic Peak Zone (80%–90%) 164 – 177 bpm
Values calculate live as you adjust inputs.

About Target Heart Rate Calculator

The Target Heart Rate Calculator calculates cardiovascular exercise intensity zones using the Karvonen Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) equation, taking both maximum heart rate and resting heart rate into account.

What is Target Heart Rate Calculator?

The Target Heart Rate Calculator calculates cardiovascular exercise intensity zones using the Karvonen Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) equation, taking both maximum heart rate and resting heart rate into account.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your current age and resting heart rate.
  2. Select your preferred MHR formula (Tanaka is recommended).
  3. Target specific heart rate zones during workouts to optimize fat oxidation or VO2 max.

The Mathematical Formula & Variables

HRmax = 208 - (0.7 * Age); HRR = HRmax - HRrest; Target = (HRR * %Intensity) + HRrest

Variables Definition

Symbol / Variable Name Description
HRR Heart Rate Reserve The dynamic cushion of cardiovascular capacity available above rest.

Step-by-Step Worked Example

Scenario: 30-year-old with a resting pulse of 60 bpm aiming for 70% aerobic intensity.

  1. HRmax = 208 - (0.7 * 30) = 208 - 21 = 187 bpm.
  2. Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) = 187 - 60 = 127 bpm.
  3. Target at 70% = (127 * 0.70) + 60 = 88.9 + 60 = 148.9 bpm.

Result: Target Aerobic Pulse = 149 bpm

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best heart rate zone for weight loss?

Zone 2 (60% to 70% of MHR) burns the highest relative percentage of calories derived from stored fat, making it ideal for base endurance building and sustainable fat oxidation.