The better method for estimating Max Heart Rate for smarter cardio zones.

In this video, I spell out why we use the newer formula to estimate maximum heart rate (HRₘₐₓ), instead of the older 220-age method. You'll gain insight into:
1. The research behind both formulas
2. What makes the newer formula more reliable across different ages
3. Real-world examples of how much difference it makes
4. Why accurate HRMax matters for safety, performance, and programming

Below are links to key papers and resources we would recommend to back up this method:
1. The foundational study that derived the new formula: Tanaka, H., Monahan, K. D., & Seals, D. R. (2001). Age-predicted maximal heart rate revisited. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 37(1), 153-156.
DOI: 10.1016/S0735-1097(00)01054-8
2. Comparing how the Fox formula and Tanaka formula perform in marathon runners, which shows practical differences in endurance athletes: Nikolaidis, P. T., Rosemann, T., & Knechtle, B. (2018). Age-Predicted Maximal Heart Rate in Recreational Marathon Runners: A Cross-Sectional Study on Fox’s and Tanaka’s Equations. Frontiers in Physiology, 9:226.
DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00226
3. Confirming Tanaka's findings in a large general population sample: Nes, B. M., Janszky, I., Wisløff, U., Støylen, A., & Karlsen, T. (2012). Age-predicted maximal heart rate in healthy subjects: The HUNT Fitness Study. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports.

✅ Use This Video If You’re:
1. A coach or trainer wanting to design better aerobic programs.
2. An athlete trying to understand how hard you should be pushing.
3. Someone curious about heart rate science, training zones, or exercise physiology.

👍 Don’t Forget
1. If you use a heart rate monitor, this formula gives a good baseline, but nothing beats a real maximal exercise test for precision.
2. Always consider factors like medications, health status, and fitness level; they can affect actual HRmax.

🔔 Subscribe & More
If you found this helpful, make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the 🔔 bell so you don’t miss future videos on training science, programming, and performance tips.