Resting Heart Rate Calculator
Use this calculator to determine if your measured resting heart rate falls within a healthy range for your age group. A healthy resting heart rate is an important indicator of cardiovascular fitness.
Understanding Your Resting Heart Rate
Your resting heart rate (RHR) is the number of times your heart beats per minute when you are at rest. It's a fundamental measure of your heart health and fitness level. A lower resting heart rate generally indicates more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness.
How to Measure Your Resting Heart Rate Accurately
- Choose the Right Time: The best time to measure your RHR is first thing in the morning, before you get out of bed, and before you've had any caffeine or engaged in any physical activity.
- Find Your Pulse: Place your index and middle fingers on your neck to the side of your windpipe (carotid artery) or on your wrist, just below the base of your thumb (radial artery).
- Count the Beats: Count the number of beats in 15 seconds, then multiply that number by four to get your beats per minute (bpm). Alternatively, count for a full 60 seconds for greater accuracy.
- Repeat for Accuracy: Take the measurement a few times and average the results to ensure accuracy.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
While a "normal" resting heart rate for adults is typically between 60 and 100 beats per minute, this range can vary based on age, fitness level, and other factors. Generally, a lower RHR within this range is considered healthier.
- Below 50 bpm: Very Low. This can be excellent for highly trained athletes, but for others, it might indicate bradycardia. Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like dizziness or fatigue.
- 50-59 bpm: Low. Often seen in fit individuals and athletes. Generally considered very good.
- 60-70 bpm: Optimal/Good. A healthy and desirable range for most adults.
- 71-80 bpm: Average. Still within the normal range, but indicates room for improvement in cardiovascular fitness.
- 81-90 bpm: Above Average/Slightly High. While still technically within the "normal" 100 bpm limit, consistently being in this range might suggest a need to improve fitness or manage stress.
- Above 90 bpm: High. This could indicate tachycardia. It's advisable to consult a doctor, especially if it's consistently high or accompanied by other symptoms.
Important Note for Children: Resting heart rates are naturally higher in children and gradually decrease with age. For example, newborns can have RHRs between 70-190 bpm, while older children (10+) typically fall into the adult range.
Factors Affecting Resting Heart Rate
Several factors can influence your RHR:
- Age: RHR tends to decrease from childhood to adulthood.
- Fitness Level: Athletes often have lower RHRs due to a more efficient heart.
- Temperature: Hot weather can slightly increase RHR.
- Emotions: Stress, anxiety, and excitement can elevate RHR.
- Medications: Some medications (e.g., beta-blockers) can lower RHR, while others can increase it.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like thyroid disorders, anemia, and heart disease can affect RHR.
- Caffeine and Nicotine: Stimulants can temporarily increase RHR.
When to Consult a Doctor
While this calculator provides general guidance, it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your doctor if:
- Your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 bpm (tachycardia).
- Your resting heart rate is consistently below 60 bpm (bradycardia) and you are not an athlete, or if you experience symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath.
- You have concerns about your heart health or any unusual symptoms.
Regular monitoring of your resting heart rate can be a valuable tool for tracking your cardiovascular health over time.