Expert: Brandon Briggs, MS - 3/7/2008

Question
I have a masters degree in physical education, been to the Cooper clinic in Dallas and have taught PE/athletics/science and health for many years.  I got a question today I can not answer.  How did the the 220 - age come about for finding target heart rate.  Where did the 220 come from?


Thanks

Answer
To be honest I am not absolutely sure how 220 was derived. I have read different publications about the orgin of the formula. One publication stated that the max HR of a new born is 220 bpm. I have also read that researchers Robergs and Roberto tested many different formulas in clinical studies and found that 220-age was the most accurate. Sorry I a can not be of  more help with this question.