Choose exam board for KS4 Computer Science (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 English
Choose exam board for KS4 French
Choose exam board for KS4 Geography
Choose exam board for KS4 German
Choose exam board for KS4 History
Choose tier for KS4 Maths
Choose exam board for KS4 Music
Choose exam board for KS4 Physical education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Religious education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Spanish

      Thresholds of training and the Karvonen formula

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can calculate and apply the different training zones based on maximum heart rate.

      Key learning points

      1. Maximum heart rate is calculated as 220 minus age.
      2. Karnoven formula is the mathematical formula that helps you determine your target heart rate training zone.
      3. The aerobic training zone is 60-80% of maximum heart rate.
      4. The anaerobic training zone is 80-90% of maximum heart rate.

      Keywords

      • Maximum heart rate (MaxHR) - calculated by 220 - age

      • 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

      • Karnoven formula - mathematical formula that helps you determine your target heart rate training zone

      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 scenerios of individuals at different ages with different fitness needs to provide ample 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

      Loading...

      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 strength?

      vertical jump
      one minute sit up
      Correct answer: grip dynamometer
      one minute press up

      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
      Correct answer: 60 - 80% of maximum heart rate
      80 - 90% of maximum heart rate

      Q4.
      Match the training zones.

      Correct Answer:lower aerobic training zone,60% of maximum heart rate
      Correct Answer:upper aerobic training zone,80% of maximum heart rate
      Correct Answer:upper anaerobic training zone,90% of maximum heart rate

      Q5.
      The Karvonen formula is x (60-80%) = aerobic training zone

      Correct Answer: MaxHR, maximum heart rate, max heart rate

      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 and the Karvonen formula, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...