Target Exercise Heart Rate (Karvonen)

The Target Exercise Heart Rate (Karvonen) computes a Target Heart Rate (THR) for exercise.  The inputs are Maximum Exercise Heart Rate (based generally on age), Basal Heart Rate (Heart Rate at rest),  and a target percentage of the Maximum Exercise Heart Rate (decimal fraction).

How to Check Your Heart Rate

Right after you stop exercising, take your pulse: Place the tips of your first two fingers lightly over one of the blood vessels on your neck, just to the left or right of your Adam's apple. Or try the pulse spot inside your wrist just below the base of your thumb.

Count your pulse for 10 seconds and multiply the number by 6.

How to use this Target Heart Rate

While exercising, check your pulse periodically to see if you are exercising within your target zone. As you get in better shape, try exercising within the upper range of your target zone. (If just beginning an exercise program, consult your doctor first.)

Additional Resources:

Check out the Heart Heath Calculator and the Metabolic Health Calculator for more Health and Fitness Equations.