Getting fit, like getting anywhere, means knowing where you are setting out from. Use the Pulse Test to work out your present fitness level and establish your ideal workout range. Be sure to exercise at this level for optimal rewards. In a month’s time you can retake the test to see your improvement.

How to take your pulse during exercise

After a few minutes of exercising, stop and put 3 fingers over the radial artery at your wrist to find your heart beat. Using a watch with a second hand count the number of heart beats over a period of 15 seconds. Then multiply this by 4 and you will know immediately if you are working out in the right range.