International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

Using the Karvonen method and an exercise intensity of 55% will determine the heart rate corresponding to what percentage of VO2 max?

1. 50%

2. 55%

3. 60%

4. 65%

The correct answer is: 55%

Using the Karvonen method to determine exercise intensity involves calculating the target heart rate based on an individual's resting heart rate and their maximum heart rate. The formula generally applied is: Target Heart Rate = Resting Heart Rate + (Maximum Heart Rate - Resting Heart Rate) x Intensity Percentage When someone chooses to exercise at an intensity of 55%, it indicates that they want to aim for a heart rate that corresponds to that specific intensity level of their cardiovascular capacity. In terms of its relationship to VO2 max, this exercise intensity is typically understood to align closely with the percentage of VO2 max for that specific target heart rate. While there might be variations based on individual fitness levels and other factors (like age, training adaptations, etc.), 55% exercise intensity generally corresponds to about the same percentage—55%—of VO2 max for a large proportion of the population. Thus, choosing 55% reflects an understanding of how the Karvonen method targets heart rate with regard to VO2 max. Other percentages, such as 50%, 60%, or 65%, would indicate targets that derive either from a lower or higher level of intensity than the calculated 55%, which does not align with the exercise intensity specified in the