Maximum heart rate calculator

Frequently asked questions

Which formula should I use as my default?

Tanaka is a widely cited modern formula and is the default here because research has found it performs somewhat better across a broad adult age range than the older Fox shortcut. That said, all three are population averages, and individual max heart rate can differ meaningfully from any formula's output.

What is the Gulati formula and who is it intended for?

The Gulati formula was developed specifically from data on women and uses slightly different age coefficients than Fox or Tanaka. It is included as a comparison point for female users, but it is still a population estimate and should not replace a supervised exercise test when clinical accuracy matters.

How do I use my max heart rate to set training zones?

Training zones are commonly expressed as percentages of max heart rate — for example, a moderate aerobic zone might fall between 60 and 75 percent of max. Once you have an estimate, multiply it by the zone boundaries to find the corresponding heart rate range for each intensity level.

Can my actual max heart rate exceed the formula estimate?

Yes. Formula estimates are population averages, and individual maximum heart rates can be substantially higher or lower. Athletes and people with high fitness levels sometimes record max values well above what any age-based formula would predict.