Heart Rate Zones Calculator

Estimate max heart rate and five training zones using the Tanaka formula.

Inputs

Result

Max heart rate
187 bpm
Percent of max method

Visual breakdown

Zone 1 — Very light
5060%
94112 bpm
Zone 2 — Light
6070%
112131 bpm
Zone 3 — Moderate
7080%
131150 bpm
Zone 4 — Hard
8090%
150168 bpm
Zone 5 — Maximum
90100%
168187 bpm

Formula

Max HR (Tanaka) = 208 − 0.7 × age. With resting HR, zones use Karvonen reserve: rest + (max − rest) × %.

Example

Age 30 → max HR ≈ 187 bpm. Zone 2 (light) ≈ 112–131 bpm.

Common examples

Age 30
Max HR ≈ 187 bpm. Zone 2 ≈ 112–131 bpm.
Age 45
Max HR ≈ 177 bpm. Zone 2 ≈ 106–124 bpm.
With resting HR
Add resting HR for Karvonen reserve zones.

Frequently asked

How accurate is max HR by formula?

It's a population estimate. Real max HR can vary by 10–20 bpm. A field test or treadmill test is more accurate.

Should I use my resting HR?

If you know it, yes — the Karvonen reserve method personalises zones based on your fitness baseline.

What is Zone 2 used for?

A common 'conversational pace' for building aerobic base. You can hold a conversation but feel slightly worked.

Are these zones safe?

They're general training guidance. Anyone with heart conditions should talk to a clinician before training in higher zones.

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More health

General fitness estimate — not medical advice. Talk to a clinician before high-intensity training if you have any heart condition.