Enter the maximum heart rate, resting heart rate, and desired workout intensity into the calculator to determine the target heart rate.

Karvonen Heart Rate Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the target heart rate using the Karvonen method. 

THR = ((HRmax - HRrest) * Intensity) + HRrest

Variables:

  • THR is the target heart rate (beats per minute) HRmax is the maximum heart rate (beats per minute) HRrest is the resting heart rate (beats per minute) %Intensity is the desired intensity of the workout (expressed as a decimal)

To calculate the target heart rate, subtract the resting heart rate from the maximum heart rate. Multiply the result by the desired intensity of the workout. Add the resting heart rate to the result.

What is Karvonen Heart Rate?

The Karvonen Heart Rate is a formula that determines an individual’s target heart rate for exercise and physical activity. It takes into account the person’s age, resting heart rate, and intensity of exercise, providing a more personalized and accurate heart rate zone. This method is often used by athletes and those in cardiac rehabilitation to ensure they are exercising within a safe and effective range.

How to Calculate Karvonen Heart Rate?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Karvonen Heart Rate.

  1. First, determine the maximum heart rate (HRmax) in beats per minute.
  2. Next, determine the resting heart rate (HRrest) in beats per minute.
  3. Next, determine the desired intensity of the workout (%Intensity) as a decimal.
  4. Next, subtract the resting heart rate (HRrest) from the maximum heart rate (HRmax).
  5. Multiply the result from step 4 by the desired intensity (%Intensity).
  6. Add the resting heart rate (HRrest) to the result from step 5.
  7. Finally, calculate the Karvonen Heart Rate (THR).

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Maximum heart rate (HRmax) = 180 beats per minute

Resting heart rate (HRrest) = 70 beats per minute

Desired intensity (%Intensity) = 0.7