Karvonen Method

A mathematical formula that uses your maximum heart rate minus your resting heart rate to determine your target heart rate.

To find out what your accurate target heart rate should be, while exercising, you will need to determine your resting heart rate. Using a watch with a second hand, count the beats you feel for 10 seconds, multiply this by six for your resting heart rate per minute. The best time to check your resting rate is just before you get up in the morning. Take an average over two or three mornings for best accuracy.

Karvonen Heart Rate Calculator

Step 1.  Enter your age:

Step 2.  Enter your resting heart rate:

Step 3.  Click here:

 

Estimated maximum heart rate:

 

50%   =	75%   =
55%   =	80%   =
60%   =	85%   =
65%   =	90%   =
70%   =	95%   =

60-70 % Lose weight or recover
70-80 % Improve aerobic fitness
80 % + Increase athletic performance