What is the heart rate reserve defined as?

Heart rate reserve is a key concept in understanding cardiovascular fitness and exercise intensity. It is defined as the difference between an individual's maximum heart rate and their resting heart rate.

To find the heart rate reserve, you first determine your estimated maximum heart rate, which is commonly calculated as 220 minus your age. The resting heart rate is measured at complete rest, typically upon waking in the morning. The heart rate reserve provides insight into the range of heart rate that an individual can utilize during physical activity, allowing for the adjustment of exercise intensity based on personal fitness levels.

This understanding is critical for tailoring workout plans, as someone with a higher heart rate reserve may experience greater flexibility in their training intensity, while a lower reserve might indicate a need for more gradual increases in intensity in order to improve fitness effectively.