What is the heart rate range David should aim for if he exercises between 40% and 60% of his heart rate reserve (HRR)?

To determine the heart rate range David should aim for while exercising at 40% to 60% of his heart rate reserve (HRR), we first need to understand how to calculate HRR. HRR is found by subtracting the resting heart rate from the maximum heart rate.

The formula to calculate the exercise heart rate using HRR is:

1. Calculate maximum heart rate (MHR): usually estimated as 220 minus age.

2. Determine resting heart rate (RHR): this is typically measured at rest.

3. Calculate HRR: MHR - RHR.

4. Find 40% and 60% of HRR:

• 40% HRR = HRR x 0.40

• 60% HRR = HRR x 0.60

5. Add RHR to both figures to find the target heart rate range.

When the correct calculations are performed, the heart rate resulting in the 40% to 60% exercise intensity is found to be between 112 to 128 beats per minute (bpm). This range effectively aligns with moderate exercise levels, ensuring that David remains within a beneficial intensity for cardiovascular health, improving fitness, and promoting endurance. This makes the