Heart Rate Training Zones Calculator
Calculate your five training heart rate zones based on age and resting heart rate.
Uses the Karvonen method for personalized zones.
Heart rate training zones help you train at the right intensity for your fitness goals.
Maximum Heart Rate (MHR):
MHR = 220 - Age
Karvonen Formula (more accurate, uses resting HR):
Target HR = ((MHR - Resting HR) × Intensity%) + Resting HR
The 5 Training Zones:
| Zone | Intensity | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | 50–60% | Recovery, warm-up |
| Zone 2 | 60–70% | Fat burning, base endurance |
| Zone 3 | 70–80% | Aerobic fitness, stamina |
| Zone 4 | 80–90% | Anaerobic threshold, speed |
| Zone 5 | 90–100% | Maximum effort, VO2 max |
Zone 2 training has gained popularity for building aerobic base. Most of your training (80%) should be in Zones 1–2 for optimal results.
How to find your resting heart rate:
- Measure first thing in the morning
- Sit quietly for 2 minutes
- Count your pulse for 60 seconds
- Average resting HR: 60–80 bpm
- Athletes: 40–60 bpm
Why use the Karvonen method: The standard percentage-of-max method can be inaccurate. The Karvonen formula accounts for your fitness level by incorporating resting heart rate.