Your Heart Rate and Cardiovascular Exercise

Your heart rate is an important factor to consider when engaging in cardiovascular exercise. It can help you determine the intensity of your workout and ensure that you’re working within a safe range.

To calculate your maximum heart rate (MHR), subtract your age from 220. For example, if you’re 40 years old, your MHR would be 180 beats per minute (220 – 40 = 180).

To determine your target heart rate (THR) range, you can use a percentage of your MHR. The American Heart Association recommends that adults aim for 50-85% of their MHR during exercise. So, for a 40-year-old individual with an MHR of 180, their THR range would be between 90 and 153 beats per minute (180 x 0.5 = 90, 180 x 0.85 = 153).

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and your individual heart rate range may vary depending on your fitness level, health status, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program.