Haskell & Fox formula

Haskell and Fox and formula; widely used.

Notwithstanding the research of Tanaka, Monahan, & Seals, the most widely cited formula for HR_max (which contains no reference to any standard deviation) is still:HR_max = 220 − age

Although attributed to various sources, it is widely thought to have been devised in 1970 by Dr. William Haskell and Dr. Samuel Fox. Inquiry into the history of this formula reveals that it was not developed from original research, but resulted from observation based on data from approximately 11 references consisting of published research or unpublished scientific compilations. It gained widespread use through being used by  in its heart rate monitors, which Dr. Haskell has “laughed about”, as the formula “was never supposed to be an absolute guide to rule people’s training.”

While it is the most common (and easy to remember and calculate), this particular formula is not considered by reputable health and fitness professionals to be a good predictor of HR_max. Despite the widespread publication of this formula, research spanning two decades reveals its large inherent error, S_xy = 7–11 bpm. Consequently, the estimation calculated by   HR_max = 220 − age   has neither the accuracy nor the scientific merit for use in exercise physiology and related fields.

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