The MHR prediction equation 208 - 0.7 × age was the most accurate in overweight and obese adults, whereas 200 - 0.48 × age significantly overestimated actual MHR (178 vs 175 bpm, p=0.005).
Cross-Sectional (n=132)
Do MHR prediction equations accurately predict actual maximal heart rate in sedentary overweight or obese adults?
The 208 - 0.7 × age equation provides the most accurate prediction of maximal heart rate for exercise prescription in sedentary overweight and obese adults.
An accurate predictor of maximal heart rate (MHR) is necessary to prescribe safe and effective exercise in those considered overweight and obese when actual measurement of MHR is unavailable or contraindicated. To date, accuracy of MHR prediction equations in individuals that are overweight or obese has not been well established. The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of 3 equations for predicting MHR in adults that are overweight or obese. One hundred seventy-three sedentary adults that were overweight or obese enrolled in weight-loss study and performed a VO₂peak treadmill test before the start of the weight loss treatment. A total of 132 of the 173 participants met conditions for achieving maximal exercise testing criteria and were included in this study. Maximal heart rate values determined from VO₂peak treadmill tests were compared across gender, age, and weight status with the following prediction equations: (a) 220 - age, (b) 208 - 0.7 × age, and (c) 200 - 0.48 × age. Among 20- to 40-year-old participants, actual MHR averaged 180 ± 9 b·min⁻¹ and was overestimated (p < 0.001) at 186 ± 5 b·min⁻¹ with the 220 - age equation. Weight status did not affect predictive accuracy of any of the 3 equations. For all participants, the equation, 200-0.48 × age estimated MHR to be 178 ± 4 b·min⁻¹, which was greater than the actual value (175 ± 12, p = 0.005). Prediction equations showed close agreement to actual MHR, with 208 - 0.7 × age being the most accurate.
Franckowiak et al. (Thu,) conducted a cross-sectional in Overweight or obese (n=132). Maximal heart rate prediction equations vs. Actual maximal heart rate was evaluated on Accuracy of maximal heart rate prediction equations. The MHR prediction equation 208 - 0.7 × age was the most accurate in overweight and obese adults, whereas 200 - 0.48 × age significantly overestimated actual MHR (178 vs 175 bpm, p=0.005).