

Graded exercise testing (GXT) involving gas exchange analysis and ventilation measurements is recognized as the gold standard for measuring (HR max) ( 1) however, access to this equipment is not always available and may be contraindicated due to individuals age, functional capabilities, or health status. Maximal heart rate (HR max) is an essential measure for health care professionals in determining cardiovascular compliance to exercise testing ( 7), exertion during exercise ( 10), and exercise prescription ( 2, 5, 16, 33). Individuals should use data from GXTs to determine HR max when applicable to ensure accuracy. The Fox equation may represent the best option for a general population as it is less likely to under or overestimate based on individual HR max. All equations used in this study show poor agreement between measured HR max and APMHR. Proportional bias indicates that prediction equations under and overestimated HR max in individuals with lower and higher measured HR max, respectively, with the exception of the Fox equation. Bland-Altman plots revealed wide limits of agreement for all nine APMHR equations, suggesting poor agreement between measured and predicted HR max. Significant differences between measured and predicted HRmax were found for the Gulati, Astrand, Nes, and Fairbarn (male) equations ( p < 0.05). Bland-Altman plots were constructed to determine agreement between equations and measured HR max. Individual paired t-test were performed to determine if significant differences existed between measured and predicted HR max, along with root mean square errors for each equation. GXTs ended upon volitional fatigue and were only included for analysis if RER > 1.10.

HR max from 99 graded treadmill exercise tests (GXT) were measured. We aimed to determine which APMHR equation (Fox, Gellish, Gulati, Tanaka, Arena, Astrand, Nes, Fairbarn) most accurately predicts max heart rate (HR max) in a general population. Although multiple APMHR prediction equations have been validated for specific populations, the accuracy of each within a general population requires testing.


In Allegheny County, the realty transfer tax ranges from 2%-5% of the total consideration of a property, with 1% submitted to the State, and the remainder going to the Municipality and School District for the property. (One check for RTT and one for recording fees.) The Realty Transfer Tax (RTT) is collected at the time of recording the property deed, and is paid separately from the recording fees with a separate check. We are also the agent for the collection of all Local Realty Transfer Taxes (Municipal and School) on all property sold in the county. We are the agent for the collection of State Realty Transfer Taxes on all property sold in the county.
