Karvonen Formula Calculator

Formula

The formula to calculate the target heart rate is:

\[ \text{THR} = \text{RHR} + ((\text{MHR} - \text{RHR}) \times \text{Intensity}) \]

Where:

\(\text{THR}\) is the target heart rate (beats per minute)
\(\text{RHR}\) is the resting heart rate (beats per minute)
\(\text{MHR}\) is the maximum heart rate (beats per minute)
\(\text{Intensity}\) is the level of exercise intensity (percentage)

What is the Karvonen Formula?

The Karvonen Formula is a mathematical formula that helps to determine the target heart rate zone for physical activity. It takes into account an individual’s resting heart rate (RHR) to calculate the target heart rate (THR) during exercise. This personalized approach ensures that one exercises within the most effective heart rate zone to improve cardiovascular fitness.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Resting Heart Rate (RHR) = 60 bpm
Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) = 180 bpm
Exercise Intensity = 70%

Using the formula:

\[ \text{THR} = 60 + ((180 - 60) \times 0.70) = 60 + (120 \times 0.70) = 60 + 84 = 144 \]

The Target Heart Rate is 144 bpm.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Resting Heart Rate (RHR) = 55 bpm
Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) = 190 bpm
Exercise Intensity = 60%

Using the formula:

\[ \text{THR} = 55 + ((190 - 55) \times 0.60) = 55 + (135 \times 0.60) = 55 + 81 = 136 \]

The Target Heart Rate is 136 bpm.