Target Heart Rate Calculator

How to Monitor Your Exercise Intensity

You should always, always, always monitor your exercise intensity throughout your workout. This will insure that you are working within you heart rate training zone and, therefore, are getting the most out of each workout. If you work too hard, you're likely to injure yourself and, possibly, burn out. If you're not working hard enough, you may get frustrated when you don't see results over time.

TAKE YOUR PULSE
Place your index and middle fingers directly under your ear, then slide your fingers down until they are directly under your jawbone, pressing lightly. Start with zero on the first beat and count for 10 seconds then multiply by six. Always check your pulse frequently throughout your workout to make sure you within your target heart rate zone.

For the Lazy (Like me!)
Get a heart rate monitor! It will monitor your heart rate throughout your workout via a transmitter worn around your chest and a watch on your wrist.

Take the Talk Test
You should be able to carry on a conversation during your workout. If you are breathless, or can't talk, you're working too hard! Slow down. Also, keep in mind that dizziness and lightheadedness is not a good sign. If you experience this, you are overexerting yourself and should stop!