The Apple Watch determines the maximum heart rate it uses, particularly for features like heart rate zones, based on a standard calculation: subtracting your age from 220.
Understanding the Calculation
According to the provided information, your maximum heart rate is typically calculated using a simple, widely-referenced formula:
- Maximum Heart Rate = 220 - Your Age
This formula provides an estimated maximum heart rate based solely on age and is a common standard used in fitness and health contexts.
Apple Watch and Heart Rate Zones
The Apple Watch utilizes this age-based calculation, specifically when setting up features like Heart Rate Zones.
- When Heart Rate Zones on your Apple Watch are set to automatic, Apple uses this calculation (220 - Age) as a foundation.
- The system then automatically updates these zones using its 'Heart Rate Reserve' method.
This means the watch doesn't necessarily measure your absolute physiological maximum heart rate during exercise, but rather uses this calculated value as a baseline for configuring useful metrics like heart rate training zones.
