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Maximum Heart Rate

By Jennifer R. Scott, About.com

Updated: August 10, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: The maximum rate at which your heart can beat per minute at a given age.

To calculate your maximum heart rate, subtract your current age from 220.

Determining your maximum heart rate can help you monitor your activity level and make sure you're not working too hard, but that you are working hard enough to see results. It is advised that you stay within 50 to 85% of your maximum heart rate when you are physically active (known as your target heart rate).

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