Interactive Tool: What Is Your Target Heart Rate?

What does this tool measure?

Click here to find your target heart rate .

This tool will help you find your target heart rate based on your age and how active you are. Your target heart rate is what you should aim for when exercising to get the most aerobic benefit.

When exercising, you can use your target heart rate to tell you how hard to exercise. Depending on your current fitness level, you may want to start at the low end of your range and increase gradually.

Target heart rate is only a guide. Each individual is different, so pay attention to how you feel, how hard you are breathing, how fast your heart is beating, and how much you feel the exertion in your muscles.

Do not use the target heart rate measurement if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin. If you have a heart condition or another chronic disease, talk to your doctor before starting to exercise.

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Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW	Last Updated November 30, 2006
Medical Review:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Heather Chambliss, PhD - Exercise Science/Weight Management Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
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