WHATISMAXIMUMHEARTRATE?The maximum heart rate is the highest your pulse rate can get.To calculate yourpredicted maximum heart rate, use thisformula:(Example: a 40-year-old's predicted maximum heart rate is180.)Your actual maximum heart rate can be determined by agraded exercise test. Please note that some medicines andmedical conditions might affect your maximum heart rate. Ifyou are taking medicines or have a medical condition (such asheart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes), always askyour doctor if your maximum heart rate/target heart rate will be affected.WHATISTARGETHEARTRATE?You gain the most benefits and decrease the risk of injury when you exercise in yourtarget heart rate zone. Usually this is when your exercise heart rate (pulse) is 60percent to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate. Do not exercise above 85percent of your maximum heart rate. This increases both cardiovascular andorthopedic risk and does not add any extra benefit.When beginning an exercise program, you might need to gradually build up to a