What is heart rate reserve?

Heart rate reserve is defined as the difference between an individual's maximal heart rate and resting heart rate. To calculate the heart rate reserve, one would first determine their maximum heart rate, which can be estimated using the formula 220 minus their age. Then, the resting heart rate, measured when the individual is at rest, is subtracted from this maximum rate. This value is significant in exercise physiology because it helps gauge the intensity of exercise and improve training protocols. The heart rate reserve ultimately assists trainers and individuals in understanding how hard they should work during various physical activities to achieve cardiovascular benefits.