To get the most out of your workout you should exercise with in your target heart rate zone. Exercising within your target heart rate zone will ensure that you are getting the optimal intensity for your body. Knowing your target heart rate, and monitoring it throughout your workout session, will also help prevent you form over (or under) exerting yourself. Working out too hard can result in injury. Similarly, not exerting yourself enough will prevent you from achieving the results you may expect from your exercise routine. Knowing your target heart rate will help you accomplish the optimal workout for your body.
Your target heart rate is 60 to 80 percent of the maximum your heart can beat. Are you working within your target heart rate zone? Use the calculator below to determine your target heart rate based on your age, resting heart rate and current fitness level.
*Determining Your Resting Heart Rate
You should only test your resting heart rate after sitting still for at least 15-20 minutes. To determine you heart rate, find your pulse and count the number of beats you feel in a 10-second period. You can feel your pulse by either placing two fingers over the inside of your wrist just below the base of your thumb or by gently placing two fingers on your neck just below the angle of your jaw. Another option is to place your hand over you heart and count the beats.
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