1. What is Target Heart Rate?

Target Heart Rate (THR) is the desired heart rate range during exercise that indicates the intensity level of your workout. It helps you exercise at the right intensity to achieve your fitness goals while maintaining safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Target Heart Rate formula:

Where:

• \( Observed\ HR \) — Your current heart rate during exercise (bpm)
• \( \%\ Target \) — The percentage of your maximum effort you want to achieve (0-1)

Explanation: This calculation helps you determine what your heart rate should be to exercise at a specific intensity level relative to your current effort.

3. Importance of Target Heart Rate

Details: Monitoring your target heart rate helps ensure you're exercising at the right intensity for your goals, whether it's fat burning, cardiovascular improvement, or endurance training.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your observed heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) and the percentage target (between 0 and 1) that represents your desired exercise intensity.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good target percentage for beginners?
A: Beginners should typically aim for 50-70% of their maximum heart rate, which corresponds to 0.5-0.7 in this calculator.

Q2: How do I measure my observed heart rate?
A: You can use a heart rate monitor, fitness tracker, or manually measure your pulse for 15 seconds and multiply by 4.

Q3: What are the different heart rate zones?
A: Typically zones are: Very light (50-60%), Light (60-70%), Moderate (70-80%), Hard (80-90%), and Maximum (90-100%).

Q4: Should I consult a doctor before starting an exercise program?
A: Yes, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions, are new to exercise, or are over 45 years old.

Q5: Can I use this calculator for different types of exercise?
A: Yes, this calculation applies to various forms of cardiovascular exercise including running, cycling, swimming, and aerobics.