Max Heart Rate Calculator (Male)
Determine your maximum heart rate and training zones based on age and calculation method.
Target Heart Rate Training Zones
Target ranges help you optimize training intensity based on your calculated max.
| Zone | Intensity | Heart Rate Range (BPM) | Benefit |
|---|
Understanding Maximum Heart Rate for Men
Your Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) is the highest number of beats per minute (BPM) your heart can pump under maximum stress. For men, knowing this figure is crucial for defining effective heart rate zones for cardio, endurance, and fat-burning workouts.
While MHR varies based on genetics, fitness level, and age, using a formula provides a safe baseline for structuring exercise intensity. It is important to note that actual MHR can vary by +/- 10-15 beats from the calculated average.
Calculation Formulas Explained
This calculator offers several formulas often used in sports science:
- Fox Formula (220 – Age): The most common and simplest method. While widely used, it tends to overestimate MHR for younger men and underestimate it for older men.
- Tanaka Formula (208 – 0.7 × Age): Considered more accurate for healthy adults of varying ages. It smooths out the discrepancies found in the Fox formula.
- Gellish Formula (207 – 0.7 × Age): Similar to Tanaka but derived from a different longitudinal study, offering a very linear regression for adult men.
- Fairbarn Formula (202 – 0.55 × Age): Specifically derived from studies focused on gender differences, offering a male-specific regression line that is slightly more conservative for younger males.
208 – (0.7 × 40) = 208 – 28 = 180 BPM
How to Use Training Zones
Once you know your Max Heart Rate, you can target specific biological adaptations:
- Zone 1 (50-60%): Warm-up and recovery. Improves overall health and helps recovery after hard workouts.
- Zone 2 (60-70%): Fat burning and basic endurance. Ideally, you can hold a conversation comfortably in this zone.
- Zone 3 (70-80%): Aerobic fitness. Improves blood circulation and skeletal muscle efficiency.
- Zone 4 (80-90%): Anaerobic threshold. Increases maximum performance capacity and lactate tolerance.
- Zone 5 (90-100%): Maximum effort. Improves sprinting speed and neuromuscular power. Only sustainable for short bursts.
Note: Always consult a physician before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have a history of cardiovascular issues.