What is Target Heart Rate Calculator?
Target Heart Rate Calculator helps you estimate a target exercise heart rate using the method and intensity entered.
The main result is estimated training heart-rate range, with a breakdown of estimated maximum heart rate. The formula, example and assumptions below explain how to interpret it.
How to use Target Heart Rate Calculator
Use the example to get familiar with the form, then enter your own figures. Any rates in the example are illustrative. Check the field labels and units before calculating.
- Gather age, resting heart rate (bpm), lower training intensity (%) and upper training intensity (%). Use values from the same situation or reporting period.
- Replace the example age with your own value, then complete the other fields. Check the displayed units.
- Select Calculate and read estimated training heart-rate range with its result breakdown. Change one input and calculate again to compare a second scenario. Reset restores the original example.
- Enter age, at least 18 and at most 90. Use a whole number.
- Enter resting heart rate in bpm, at least 30 and at most 120. Decimals are accepted.
- Enter lower training intensity in %, at least 0 and at most 100. Decimals are accepted.
- Enter upper training intensity in %, at least 0 and at most 100. Decimals are accepted.
Target Heart Rate Calculator: a worked example
With the inputs below, the result is 124–168 bpm (estimated training heart-rate range). Follow the example, then replace these illustrative values with your own.
| Input or output | Example value |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| Resting heart rate (bpm) | 60 bpm |
| Lower training intensity (%) | 50 % |
| Upper training intensity (%) | 85 % |
| Estimated training heart-rate range | 124–168 bpm |
| Estimated maximum heart rate | 187 bpm |
Understanding the Target Heart Rate result
Read estimated training heart-rate range alongside estimated maximum heart rate. These describe different parts of the same calculation.
Displayed results use a readable number of decimal places. When checking a result by hand, keep extra precision until the last step. To compare scenarios, change one input at a time and keep the others fixed.
- Example Estimated maximum heart rate: 187 bpm
Target Heart Rate Calculator: assumptions and common mistakes
A useful estimate starts with the right inputs. Check the following assumptions and limits before applying the result to your situation.
- Estimates for general information. They do not diagnose a condition or replace a qualified clinician’s assessment.
- Health estimates are context-dependent. Age, pregnancy, illness, medication and individual measurements can affect interpretation; these tools do not diagnose a condition.
For wider guidance, visit World Health Organization. The formula and scope of this specific tool are stated on this page.
