What is the Difference Between HRR and HRmax?

The difference between Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) and Heart Rate Maximum (HRmax) lies in their calculation and the factors they take into account. Here are the key differences:

• HRR: Heart Rate Reserve is the difference between your maximal heart rate (MHR) and your resting heart rate (RHR). It is calculated using the formula: HRR = MHR - RHR. HRR takes into account individual factors, such as a person's fitness level and resting heart rate, making it more personalized.
• HRmax: Heart Rate Maximum is the fastest rate at which the heart will beat in one minute in a person. It is calculated using the formula: HRmax = 220 - age of person. HRmax is a more straightforward measurement that does not take into account individual factors.

In summary, HRR is a more personalized measurement that considers an individual's fitness level and resting heart rate, while HRmax is a simpler measurement that only depends on a person's age. Both measurements are used to determine target heart rates for different levels of intensity during exercise, but HRR is considered more accurate and consistent with the percentage of effort and reserve.

Comparative Table: HRR vs HRmax

Here is a table comparing Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) and Heart Rate Maximum (HRmax):

HRmax is a useful parameter for prescribing exercise intensities and estimating aerobic fitness levels. It is often predicted using age-based formulas such as the Fox equation (220 - age) or the Tanaka equation (208 - 0.7 × age). However, these formulas may not be entirely accurate due to large inter-individual variation in HRmax values across a given population.

Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) is the difference between the maximum heart rate (HRmax) and the resting heart rate (HRrest). It is used to determine training zones and exercise intensities based on the individual's maximum heart rate.