ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which equation is used to determine the Target Heart Rate (THR)?

1. THR = [HRR x training%] + HRrest

2. THR = [HRmax + HRrest] x training%

3. THR = HRR / training%

4. THR = HRmax - (HRrest x training%)

The correct answer is: THR = [HRR x training%] + HRrest

The equation used to determine the Target Heart Rate (THR) is based on the heart rate reserve (HRR), which is the difference between the maximum heart rate (HRmax) and the resting heart rate (HRrest). The equation is: THR = [HRR x training%] + HRrest. This formula takes into account both the HRR and the desired training intensity, expressed as a percentage. By multiplying the HRR by the training percentage, you can calculate the contribution to the THR that is aligned with the individual's fitness level and training goals. Adding the resting heart rate to this result provides a more personalized and accurate THR, ensuring that the individual is training within a safe and effective range. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the relationship between HRmax, HRrest, and the training intensity required to determine the THR correctly. For instance, the second option doesn’t account for how resting heart rate impacts overall target heart rate and misapplies the concept of training percentage. The third option oversimplifies the relationship, and the fourth option contains a method that does not align with the standard approach for calculating THR. The correct method ensures that both resting and exercise heart rates are considered, leading to