Heart Rate (BPM) Calculator
Measure your pulse manually and calculate your heart rate instantly.
Your Calculated Heart Rate is:
0
Beats Per Minute (BPM)
How to Calculate Heart Rate Manually
Your heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times your heart beats per minute (BPM). Calculating it manually is a vital skill for monitoring cardiovascular health and exercise intensity. To find your heart rate, follow these steps:
- Find your pulse: Place two fingers (index and middle) on your wrist (radial artery) just below the base of the thumb, or on your neck (carotid artery) to the side of your windpipe.
- Set a timer: Use a stopwatch or a clock with a second hand.
- Count the beats: Count every "thump" you feel for a set period (usually 15 or 30 seconds).
- Apply the formula: Multiply the number of beats by the appropriate factor to reach 60 seconds.
The BPM Formula
The mathematical formula to determine your heart rate is straightforward:
BPM = (Beats Counted / Seconds Recorded) × 60
Calculation Examples
- 15-Second Method: If you count 18 beats in 15 seconds: 18 × 4 = 72 BPM.
- 10-Second Method: If you count 12 beats in 10 seconds: 12 × 6 = 72 BPM.
- 30-Second Method: If you count 35 beats in 30 seconds: 35 × 2 = 70 BPM.
Understanding Resting Heart Rate Normals
A normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, many factors influence this, including age, fitness level, and stress.
| Category | Average Range (BPM) |
|---|---|
| Athletes | 40 – 60 BPM |
| Healthy Adults | 60 – 100 BPM |
| Children (6-15 years) | 70 – 100 BPM |
| Infants | 100 – 160 BPM |
When to Measure
For the most accurate Resting Heart Rate, measure your pulse first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. To measure Exercise Heart Rate, take your pulse immediately after stopping your activity to ensure the rate hasn't begun to drop.