What Is A Normal Heart Rate?
What Is A Good Resting Heart Rate?
Heart rate, simply put, is the number of times your heart beats in a minute. It’s an important measure of how hard your heart is working. For adults, a normal resting heart rate usually ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Yet, many factors, such as age, fitness level, and even the time of day, can influence this number.
| Age Group | Average Resting Heart Rate (Beats Per Minute) |
|---|---|
| Newborns (0-1 month) | 70-190 |
| Infants (1-11 months) | 80-160 |
| Toddlers (1-2 years) | 80-130 |
| Preschoolers (3-5 years) | 80-120 |
| Children (6-11 years) | 75-115 |
| Adolescents (12-15 years) | 60-105 |
| Young adults (16-20 years) | 60-100 |
| Adults (21-60 years) | 60-100 |
| Seniors (over 60 years) | 60-100 |
Factors Influencing Heart Rate
- Age: Generally, as you age, your heart rate might not increase as much during exercise.
- Fitness Level: Athletes or those who are very fit often have lower resting heart rates.
- Medications: Some drugs, like beta blockers, can lower your heart rate.
- Emotions: Stress or anxiety can raise your heart rate.
- Body Size: Sometimes, heart rate can vary with body size and condition.
- Temperature: In hot weather, your heart might beat faster.
When to Be Concerned
It’s essential to understand that while the range of 60-100 beats per minute is considered ‘normal,’ what’s normal for you might not be the same for someone else. If your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 beats per minute (tachycardia) or below 60 beats per minute (bradycardia) and you’re not an athlete, it might be wise to consult a healthcare professional.
Monitoring Your Heart Rate
You can easily check your heart rate by feeling your pulse. The most common spots are your wrist and the side of your neck. Once you find your pulse, count the number of beats in 60 seconds. Alternatively, you can count for 15 seconds and multiply by four.
Why Monitor Heart Rate?
Keeping an eye on your heart rate can be a good indicator of your overall health. It helps in:
- Assessing your fitness level.
- Monitoring the effectiveness of medications.
- Detecting health problems.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal for your heart rate to fluctuate throughout the day. It will be different when you’re resting compared to when you’re exercising. Always consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns about your heart rate, especially if you experience symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Further Reading: Why Is My Heart Beating So Fast?
