Training effectively requires more than just running or cycling as fast as you can. To optimize your fitness gains—whether your goal is fat loss, endurance, or peak athletic performance—you need to train at specific intensities. This calculator uses the Karvonen Formula, widely considered the gold standard for calculating training zones because it factors in your specific Resting Heart Rate (RHR), offering a much more personalized result than generic formulas.
What are the 5 Zones?
Zone 1 (50-60% Intensity): This is the recovery zone. It feels very easy, allowing for conversation. It helps with warm-ups, cool-downs, and active recovery days.
Zone 2 (60-70% Intensity): Often called the "Fat Burning Zone." Training here teaches your body to utilize fat as fuel efficiently. It builds your aerobic base and endurance without putting excessive stress on the body.
Zone 3 (70-80% Intensity): The aerobic zone. This is where you improve your cardiovascular system's ability to transport oxygen. It feels like a moderate effort where breathing becomes heavier but is still rhythmic.
Zone 4 (80-90% Intensity): The anaerobic threshold zone. Training here improves your ability to sustain high speeds and deal with lactic acid buildup. It is hard work and sustainable only for shorter periods.
Zone 5 (90-100% Intensity): Maximum effort. This zone is for short bursts (sprints/intervals) to develop peak speed and neuromuscular coordination. It puts significant strain on the system and requires substantial recovery.
Why Use Resting Heart Rate?
Many simple calculators only use your age to determine your zones (220 – Age). However, this ignores your fitness level. By incorporating your Resting Heart Rate, the Karvonen formula calculates your "Heart Rate Reserve" (HRR)—the functional range between your heart's bottom and top speeds. As you get fitter, your resting heart rate drops, and your training zones will adjust accordingly to keep your workouts effective.
How to Measure Resting Heart Rate
For the most accurate results, measure your pulse immediately after waking up in the morning, before getting out of bed or drinking coffee. Count the beats for 60 seconds. Do this for 3-4 days and take the average to input into the calculator above.