Karvonen Heart Rate Calculator

Formula

The formula to calculate the target heart rate using the Karvonen method is:

\[ THR = ((HR_{max} - HR_{rest}) \times \text{Intensity}) + HR_{rest} \]

Where:

\(THR\) is the target heart rate (beats per minute)
\(HR_{max}\) is the maximum heart rate (beats per minute)
\(HR_{rest}\) is the resting heart rate (beats per minute)
\(\text{Intensity}\) is the desired intensity of the workout (expressed as a decimal)

What is Karvonen Heart Rate?

The Karvonen Heart Rate is a formula that determines an individual’s target heart rate for exercise and physical activity. It takes into account the person’s age, resting heart rate, and intensity of exercise, providing a more personalized and accurate heart rate zone. This method is often used by athletes and those in cardiac rehabilitation to ensure they are exercising within a safe and effective range.

Example Calculation

Let's assume the following values:

Maximum Heart Rate (HRmax) = 180 bpm
Resting Heart Rate (HRrest) = 60 bpm
Intensity = 0.75 (75%)

Using the formula:

\[ THR = ((180 - 60) \times 0.75) + 60 = 150 \, \text{bpm} \]

The Target Heart Rate is 150 bpm.

Another example with different values:

Maximum Heart Rate (HRmax) = 200 bpm
Resting Heart Rate (HRrest) = 70 bpm
Intensity = 0.60 (60%)

Using the formula:

\[ THR = ((200 - 70) \times 0.60) + 70 = 148 \, \text{bpm} \]

The Target Heart Rate is 148 bpm.