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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can calculate and apply the different training zones and thresholds based on maximum heart rate and one rep. max.

      Key learning points

      1. Maximum heart rate is calculated as 220 minus age.
      2. The aerobic training zone is 60-80% of maximum heart rate.
      3. The anaerobic training zone is 80-90% of maximum heart rate.
      4. Using your one repetition maximum (one rep max) as part of weight training to identify a training zone.
      5. Strength and power above 70% one rep max and muscular endurance below 70%.

      Keywords

      • Training thresholds - the actual boundaries of the target zone

      • Aerobic training zone - calculated at 60-80% maximum heart rate to allow the aerobic system to be trained

      • Anaerobic training zone - calculated at 80-90% maximum heart rate to allow the anaerobic system to be trained

      • Maximum heart rate - calculated by 220 minus age

      • One rep max - the maximal amount that can be lifted in one repetition by a muscle group

      Common misconception

      Training at the highest intensity is the best way to see results.

      A balanced and accurate approach to training intensity using approximate zones is necessary to optimise fitness, recovery and avoid injury.

      Teacher tip

      Use plenty of scenarios of individuals at different ages with different fitness needs to provide ample of opportunity for students to complete calculations and justify their choice of training thresholds.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      The 'F' in FITT represents?

      Frequent
      Correct answer: Frequency
      Following
      Flexibility

      Q2.
      "I chose weight training to develop strength". Which FITT principle has been described?

      Frequency
      Intensity
      Time
      Correct answer: Type

      Q3.
      Which of the following are methods to record heart rate?

      Correct answer: heart rate monitor
      Correct answer: smart watch
      tape measure
      spirometer

      Q4.
      Which of the following is a standardised test of maximal strength?

      stork stand
      sit and reach
      Correct answer: one rep max
      sit up bleep test

      Q5.
      Aerobic is exercise in the presence of...

      Correct Answer: oxygen, o2

      Q6.
      Exercising in the absence of oxygen is known as...

      Correct Answer: anaerobic

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Maximum heart is calculated as minus age.

      200
      205
      210
      Correct answer: 220

      Q2.
      Which is the correct maximum heart rate for a 17 year old?

      201 bpm
      Correct answer: 203 bpm
      205 bpm
      207 bpm

      Q3.
      Which is correct for the aerobic training zone?

      An image in a quiz
      50 - 70% of maximum heart rate
      70 - 80% of maximum heart rate
      60 - 80% of maximum heart rate
      Correct answer: 80 - 90% of maximum heart rate

      Q4.
      Match the training thresholds.

      Correct Answer:aerobic training zone,60 - 80% maximum heart rate
      Correct Answer:anaerobic training zone,80 - 90% maximum heart rate
      Correct Answer:strength/power,above 70% one rep max
      Correct Answer:muscular endurance,below 70% one rep max

      Q5.
      For strength/power an athlete should lift above 70% one rep max for approximately 3 sets of - 8 reps.

      Correct Answer: 4, four

      Q6.
      For an athlete who is 16. Which is correct for training in the anaerobic zone?

      122 - 163 bpm
      145 - 163 bpm
      163 - 196 bpm
      Correct answer: 163 - 184 bpm
      Q3 iiinuthiii/Shutterstock.com

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Thresholds of training, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...