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Monitoring Heart Rate
Before beginning your workout, check your normal resting heart rate. Place your fingers
lightly against your neck, or against your wrist over the main artery. After finding your
pulse, count the number of beats in 10 seconds. Multiply the number of beats by six to
determine your pulse rate per minute. We recommend taking your heart rate at these
times; at rest, after warming up, during your workout and two minutes into your cool down,
to accurately track your progress as it relates to better fitness.
During your first several months of exercising, the AHA recommends aiming for the lower
part of the target heart rate zone-60%, then gradually progressing up to 75%.
According to the AHA, exercising above 75% of your maximum heart rate may be too stren-
uous unless you are in top physical condition. Exercising below 60% of your maximum will
result in minimal cardiovascular conditioning.
Check your pulse recovery rate – If your pulse is over 100 bpm five minutes after you stop
exercising, or if it’s higher than normal the morning after exercising, your exertion may
have been too strenuous for your current fitness level. Rest and reduce the intensity next
time.
Fitness Safety The target heart rate chart indicates average rate zones for different ages.
A variety of different factors (including medication, emotional state, temperature and other
conditions) can affect the target heart rate zone that is best for you. Your physician or
health care professional can help you determine the exercise intensity that is appropriate
for your age and condition.
(MHR) = Maximum Heart Rate
(THR) = Target Heart Rate
220 - age = maximum heart rate (MHR)
MHR x .60 = 60% of your maximum heart rate.
MHR x .75 = 75% of your maximum heart rate.
For example, if you are 30 years old, your calculations will be as
follows:
220 - 30 = 190
190 x .60 = 114 (low end or 60% of MHR)
190 x .75 = 142 (high end or 75% of MHR)
30 year-old (THR) Target Heart Rate would be 114-142