Prediction of maximal heart rate during a submaximal work test

A multiple regression equation was developed utilizing submaximal ratings of perceived exertion and heart rate collected during a treadmill walking test to predict maximal heart rate (MHR). One hundred subjects were administered a modification of the Balke Treadmill test during which time submaximal ratings of perceived exertion (Borg Scale) and heart rate measurements were recorded. Subjects worked until volitional fatigue and maximal heart was recorded. A multiple regression equation was developed which did not require the subject to work at greater than 85% of MHR. The multiple regression equation is MHR = 108.461 + 0.5108 (RPE 15)-0.6570 (8HR) + 0.6075 (10HR)-0.2641 (age in years) with RPE 15 equal to the heart rate at a perceived exertion rating of 15 on the Borg Scale, 8HR equal to the heart rate at 8 minutes and 10HR equal to the heart rate at 10 minutes. It was found that the regression equation significantly improved the ability to predict MHR and represented a 28% improvement in the commonly used equation MHR = 220-age.