Your heart usually beats faster when you exercise because it is working harder to pump more blood to muscles. Your target heart rate helps you to aim for the optimal exercise pace, so that you get a good cardiovascular workout without overworking your heart – especially if you have a cardiovascular condition such as high blood pressure or heart disease.  

The table below shows approximate target heart rates according to age. Look for the age that’s closest to yours, then read across to find your target heart rate. Your maximum heart rate is about 220 minus your age.

Tip: Certain medications and medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, may affect your heart rate, so check with your doctor what would be a safe target range for you.

 
What does your target heart rate mean?
If you have been sedentary and starting a fitness regimen, the idea is to start by aiming for 50% of your maximum heart, and working your way up to 85% over the course of weeks and months – as you get fitter.