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Cardio training tool

Target Heart Rate Calculator

Find approximate exercise heart-rate zones based on your age and, optionally, your resting heart rate.

Five training zones Optional resting HR Printable result

Calculate your zones

Enter your heart-rate details

The results are approximate training ranges and are not a medical diagnosis.

Your information

Add your age and choose a calculation method. Resting heart rate is optional for the age-based method.

Enter an age between 13 and 100.
Optional. Enter beats per minute measured while rested.
Automatic mode uses age-based zones unless you enter a resting heart rate.
Your selected focus will be highlighted in the results.

How to use it

Use your target zones safely

Heart-rate zones are useful for describing workout intensity, but they should be combined with how your body feels.

1

Enter your age

Your age is used to estimate maximum heart rate.

2

Add resting HR

Resting heart rate is optional and can create a more personal estimate.

3

Select your focus

Choose the type of effort you want to identify.

4

Review the range

Start conservatively and monitor your response during exercise.

Heart-rate zones explained

What is a target heart rate?

Target heart rate is an approximate range used to describe exercise intensity. The range can help you understand whether a workout is easy, moderate or vigorous.

Age-based calculation

The age-based method estimates maximum heart rate by subtracting your age from 220. The calculator then applies five percentage zones to that estimate.

Heart-rate reserve method

When a resting heart rate is entered, the calculator can use the difference between estimated maximum heart rate and resting heart rate to create more personalized ranges.

Why your actual zones may differ

  • Heart-rate formulas are population-based estimates.
  • Medication can change heart-rate response.
  • Heat, stress and dehydration can affect readings.
  • Fitness level can influence exercise heart rate.
  • Wearable devices may have measurement errors.
Important: This calculator is for general education and exercise planning. It does not diagnose heart conditions or determine medically safe exercise intensity.

Common questions

Target heart-rate FAQ

Are these heart-rate zones exact?

No. They are approximate ranges based on commonly used formulas. Individual heart-rate responses can vary.

Why should I enter resting heart rate?

Resting heart rate allows the calculator to use a heart-rate reserve method instead of relying only on age and estimated maximum heart rate.

What if my heart rate is higher than the calculated range?

Reduce intensity and pay attention to how you feel. If you have concerning symptoms or a medical condition, seek professional advice.

Can medication affect target heart rate?

Yes. Some medications can affect heart-rate response. Ask your healthcare professional what exercise intensity is appropriate for you.

For education, not diagnosis. Calculator results and wellness articles are general information and are not a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.