1. What Is the Fat Burning Zone?

The fat burning zone is a heart rate range (typically 60-70% of your maximum heart rate) where your body is thought to burn a higher percentage of calories from fat compared to higher intensity exercise zones.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fat burning zone formula:

Where:

• \( \text{MHR} \) — Maximum Heart Rate in beats per minute (bpm)
• \( 0.6 \) — Lower limit coefficient (60% of MHR)
• \( 0.7 \) — Upper limit coefficient (70% of MHR)

Explanation: This zone represents moderate-intensity exercise where fat oxidation is maximized relative to carbohydrate oxidation.

3. Importance of the Fat Burning Zone

Details: Training in this zone can be particularly beneficial for weight loss, improving aerobic capacity, and building endurance. It's also a comfortable intensity level that can be sustained for longer periods.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your maximum heart rate (MHR) in beats per minute. If you don't know your MHR, you can estimate it using the formula: 220 - age.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the fat burning zone the best for weight loss?
A: While you burn a higher percentage of fat in this zone, higher intensity workouts burn more total calories. The best approach combines both.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a general estimate. Individual fat burning zones may vary based on fitness level and other factors.

Q3: How long should I stay in this zone?
A: For optimal fat burning, aim for 30-60 minutes of continuous exercise in this zone.

Q4: Can I calculate my fat burning zone without knowing my MHR?
A: You can estimate MHR as 220 minus your age, but a stress test provides the most accurate measurement.

Q5: Does this apply to all types of exercise?
A: Yes, you can maintain this heart rate zone with various activities like walking, cycling, or swimming.