Target Heart Rate Calculator
Your results
Your target heart rate is to beats
per minute (60 seconds). This is based on your fitness level and age. Your maximum heart rate is beats per minute.
About your results
Your
target range depends on how fit you are. You marked your fitness level as out
of shape. This means your target rate should be 50% to 70% of your maximum heart rate. Because you are not fit, you should start at a lower target heart rate. Aim for a target heart rate that is 50% to 60% of your maximum rate. As you get more fit, you may increase your heart rate. You can raise it up to 70% of maximum. Talk with your healthcare provider before you start a new exercise program. This is very important if you have any heart problems, are an older adult, or haven't exercised often in the past.
Your
target range depends on how fit you are. You marked your fitness level as fit. This means your target rate should be 70% to 80% of your maximum heart rate. Because you are fit, this means that you exercise regularly. It means you likely don't have health issues that make it unsafe for you to exercise.
Your
target range depends on how fit you are. You marked your fitness level as athletic. This means your target rate should be 70% to 85% of your maximum heart rate. Because you are athletic, this means that you exercise often and actively. It means you likely don't have any health issues that make it unsafe for you to exercise. If you do endurance training, your target heart rate will be different. You can aim for 55% to 90% of your maximum heart rate.
Finding your heart rate
You can find out your heart rate when you exercise. First, stop briefly to take your pulse. The easiest spots to find your pulse are at your neck and wrist. Place your fingers (not thumb) on either of these spots. Press lightly. Count the beats you feel for 60 seconds. Or count for 30 seconds and double the result. You can also use a pulse monitor. You can buy these at sporting goods stores and some drugstores.
Why should you care?
Regular exercise is important. It can help you stay healthy and at a normal weight. When you exercise, you should know how much your heart is working. Your target heart rate can tell you that. Keep in mind that exercise doesn't have to be hard to give you health benefits. You can improve your fitness and health by doing a moderate-strength workout a total of 150 minutes each week. Or with a harder-strength workout a total of 75 minutes each week. You can break this up into smaller parts during the day. If you are a beginner, start at a less active level. Then work up to more active exercise as you get more fit.
This tool does not replace the advice of a healthcare provider.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Kang, Steven, MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Wojcik, Stacey, MBA, BSN, RN
Date Last Reviewed:
6/1/2021
© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.