Your target heart rate is the range at which sustained physical activity is considered safe and effective. The ideal range, which is a percentage of what your maximum heart rate should be, depends on your age and how physically fit you are. It is important to know this because regular exercise can help you stay healthy and maintain a normal weight.

You can estimate your heart rate during exercise by briefly stopping to find your pulse on your neck or wrist. Place two fingers on either of these locations and press lightly. Count the number of beats for a full minute, or for 30 seconds and double the result. You also can buy an inexpensive pulse monitor at the store.

A 40-year-old, for example, has an estimated target heart rate of 90 to 135 beats per minute. Results will vary by each individual depending on their physical condition and age.

Even if you aren’t ready to run a marathon, you can improve your fitness with a 30- to 60-minute workout of moderate intensity most days of the week. Beginners should start at a less vigorous level and work up to a moderate intensity. If you have any heart problems, or if you are elderly, consult with your physician before starting a rigorous exercise program.

Check your target heart rate with the free, online Target Heart Rate Calculator on the Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake website at www.DoctorsHospitalDallas.com/TargetHeartRate.

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake
214 324-6100

www.doctorshospitaldallas.com