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Target heart rate calculator

Enter your age and resting heart rate to calculate personalised target heart rate zones using the Karvonen method. This accounts for your individual fitness level, producing more accurate zones than simple percentage-of-max formulas.

How it works

Maximum heart rate is estimated using the Tanaka formula: Max HR = 208 − (0.7 × age). Each training zone is a percentage range of max HR. When a resting heart rate is provided, the Karvonen method is used instead: Target HR = ((Max HR − Resting HR) × intensity%) + Resting HR. This accounts for heart rate reserve and produces personalised zones. All arithmetic runs locally in your browser using pure JavaScript.

Processing runs in your browser

All calculations happen locally using pure JavaScript. Our servers are not involved at any point.

Technical specification

The Tanaka formula (208 − 0.7 × age) was derived from a meta-analysis of 351 studies involving 18,712 subjects by Tanaka et al. and published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology 37:1 (2001). It is more accurate than the classic 220 − age formula across all age groups, particularly for adults over 40. Both formulas have a standard deviation of ±10–12 bpm. The Karvonen method uses heart rate reserve (HRR = Max HR − Resting HR) to scale zones relative to individual fitness.

Max HR formula
Tanaka: 208 − 0.7 × age (JACC 37:1, 2001)
Personalised zones
Karvonen method using heart rate reserve
Accuracy
±10–12 bpm (population average)
Browser API
Pure JavaScript arithmetic. No library

Related operations

For estimating daily energy expenditure for training, try the calorie calculator. To capture a baseline weight category, use the BMI calculator. For tracking strength gains alongside cardio zones, see the one-rep max calculator.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Karvonen method?
The Karvonen method calculates target heart rate as: (Max HR − Resting HR) × intensity% + Resting HR. By accounting for resting heart rate (heart rate reserve), it produces personalised zones that reflect individual cardiovascular fitness.
What is heart rate reserve?
Heart rate reserve (HRR) is the difference between your maximum heart rate and your resting heart rate. A higher HRR indicates better cardiovascular fitness. The Karvonen method uses HRR as the basis for intensity calculations.
When should I measure my resting heart rate?
Measure resting heart rate first thing in the morning before getting out of bed, after at least 5 minutes of rest. Take the average over 3–5 days for the most reliable reading.
Is my data sent to a server?
All calculations are pure JavaScript running in your browser. Our servers are not involved at any point.

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