If You Mean Business, Use Your Target Heart Rate

Is improving your cardiovascular system one of your motivations for working out? If so, make sure you’re exercising at your target heart rate (THR). “You’re more likely to significantly improve your cardiovascular endurance if you stay within your target heart range during cardiovascular exercise,” says Mike Divello, Assistant National Director of Personal Training. In fact, no matter what your fitness goal - weight loss, stamina, stress relief, disease prevention - you’re going to see your desired results if you pay attention to your heart rate and stay within your targeted range. “If you exercise at a lower intensity, you will still gain some health benefits,” Divello explains. “Exercise decreases the risk of heart disease, strokes, hypertension, diabetes, and some cancers.” The Formula ? Subtract your age from 220. (This is your maximum heart rate, or MHR.) ? Multiply your MHR by 0.55 and then by 0.90. ? These two numbers represent your target heart rate range in h...