AgeTarget Heart Rate* Zone During Exercise (Heartbeats per Minute) 20–29 120–160  30–39 114–152  40–49 108–144  50–59 102–136  60–69 96–128  70–79 90–120.

Target heart rates are based on 60%–80% of estimated maximum heart rates (220 minus age).

Now, practice finding your pulse point and calculating your heart rate: Place one or two fingertips (not a thumb) on the opposite wrist, just below the base of your thumb. Count the number of heartbeats you feel in 10 seconds. Multiply that number by six to get your heart rate per minute.

Step 2: Complete Your Fitness Activity

The goal here is to increase your heart rate, so choose an activity that’s going to get your heart pumping.Go for a brisk walk or run around the block, jump rope, use an elliptical trainer, or do any activity that will increase your heart rate.

While you’re exercising, check your heart rate frequently. You’re aiming to hit your target heart rate from the chart above.

Once your heartbeat is within the target range, stop exercising and write down two measurements:

1. Your heart rate immediately after stopping 2. Your heart rate 2 minutes later

Step 3: Calculate Your Heart Rate Recovery

Subtract your 2-minute heart rate from the heart rate you took immediately after exercising. The faster your heart rate recovers — or slows down — the fitter and healthier your heart.

If the difference between the two numbers is:

Less than 22: Your RealAge is slightly older than your calendar age.

22–52: Your RealAge is about the same as your calendar age.

53–58: Your RealAge is slightly younger than your calendar age.

59–65: Your RealAge is moderately younger than your calendar age.

66 or more: Your RealAge is a lot younger than your calendar age.