Calculadora de Calorias por Frequencia Cardiaca

This calculator estimates calorie expenditure during physical exercise using heart rate as a basis. Unlike methods that consider only weight and time, it incorporates age, weight, sex, and average heart rate, offering a more personalized estimate. The formula used is Keytel's, developed specifically for men and women, which relates heart rate to oxygen consumption and consequently to calories burned. The result is presented in kilocalories (kcal), the common unit for food energy.

The calculation follows the Keytel equation: for men, the formula differs from that for women, with specific coefficients for each sex. The general equation is: calories per minute = (a * heart rate + b * weight + c * age + d) / 4.184. The values of a, b, c, and d vary by sex. After obtaining the per-minute value, multiply by the total exercise duration in minutes. The constant 4.184 is the conversion factor from joules to calories, as the equation result is in joules.

Use this calculator when you want a more accurate estimate of calorie expenditure during activities like running, cycling, swimming, or gym workouts. It is especially useful for those who monitor heart rate with a sports watch or heart rate monitor. The heart rate should be the average during exercise, not the maximum. Remember that the result is an estimate; actual expenditure can vary with factors such as basal metabolic rate, ambient temperature, and fitness level.

Precautions: heart rate should be measured accurately, preferably with a heart rate monitor. Avoid using the theoretical maximum heart rate (220 minus age), as it may be inaccurate for trained individuals. The Keytel formula has reasonable accuracy for steady-state aerobic activities but may be less accurate for high-intensity or interval exercises. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.