How Do You Calculate Max Heart Rate

Max Heart Rate Calculator

Your maximum heart rate (MHR) is the highest number of times your heart can realistically beat per minute during maximal physical exertion. It's a useful metric for understanding your training zones and gauging your fitness level. The most common and simplest way to estimate your MHR is using the "220 minus age" formula.

Understanding Maximum Heart Rate

The formula 220 – Age is a widely used, though simplified, method for estimating your maximum heart rate. While it provides a good starting point, it's important to understand that this is an estimation. Individual variations in genetics, fitness level, and other physiological factors can mean your actual MHR might be higher or lower than the calculated value. For a more precise measurement, a supervised stress test with a medical professional is recommended.

Knowing your estimated MHR allows you to determine your target heart rate zones for different types of workouts:

  • Very Light Intensity (50-60% of MHR): Good for warm-ups, cool-downs, and recovery.
  • Light to Moderate Intensity (60-70% of MHR): Excellent for building an aerobic base and improving endurance.
  • Moderate to Hard Intensity (70-85% of MHR): Effective for improving cardiovascular fitness and burning calories.
  • Hard to Maximal Intensity (85-100% of MHR): Used for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and improving anaerobic capacity.

Always listen to your body and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

function calculateMaxHeartRate() { var ageInput = document.getElementById("age"); var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result"); var age = parseFloat(ageInput.value); if (isNaN(age) || age <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid age."; return; } var maxHeartRate = 220 – age; resultDiv.innerHTML = "Your estimated Maximum Heart Rate is: " + maxHeartRate + " bpm"; }

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