1. What is the Fat Burning Zone?

The fat burning zone is a heart rate range where your body is believed to burn a higher percentage of calories from fat during exercise. This typically occurs at 60-70% of your maximum heart rate.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{MHR} \) — Maximum Heart Rate (either provided or calculated as 220 - age)
• \( 0.6 \text{ to } 0.7 \) — Percentage range for fat burning zone

Explanation: The equation calculates the optimal heart rate range where your body burns the highest percentage of calories from fat.

3. Importance of Fat Burning Zone

Details: Exercising in this zone can be particularly effective for weight management and improving metabolic health, especially for beginners or those focusing on endurance training.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your age (required) and optionally your known maximum heart rate if you have it from testing. The calculator will determine your fat burning zone range.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the fat burning zone the best for weight loss?
A: While it burns a higher percentage of fat, higher intensity workouts may burn more total calories and fat overall.

Q2: How accurate is the 220-age formula?
A: It's a general estimate. Actual MHR can vary by ±10-20 bpm. For more accuracy, consider a stress test.

Q3: Should I only exercise in this zone?
A: No, a balanced exercise program should include various intensity levels for comprehensive fitness.

Q4: How do I measure my heart rate during exercise?
A: Use a heart rate monitor or check your pulse manually at your wrist or neck for 15 seconds, then multiply by 4.

Q5: Does this zone change with fitness level?
A: Your MHR changes little with fitness, but your ability to work in higher zones improves with training.