Resting Heart Rate by Age Calculator
Assess your cardiovascular fitness level instantly.
Understanding Your Resting Heart Rate (RHR)
Your resting heart rate is a significant indicator of your cardiovascular health and overall physical fitness. It represents the number of times your heart beats per minute while you are at complete rest. For most healthy adults, a typical RHR ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute (BPM).
How to Use the Calculator
To get an accurate result, follow these steps to measure your heart rate manually before entering the data:
- Timing: Measure first thing in the morning before getting out of bed, or after sitting quietly for at least 10 minutes.
- Find Pulse: Place two fingers on your wrist (radial artery) or the side of your neck (carotid artery).
- Count: Use a stopwatch to count the beats for 60 seconds. Alternatively, count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2.
- Input: Enter your age, gender, and the recorded BPM into the calculator above.
Resting Heart Rate Chart by Age & Fitness Level
While 60–100 BPM is considered "normal," lower rates often indicate better cardiovascular efficiency. Athletes frequently have RHRs between 40 and 60 BPM.
| Age Group | Athlete | Excellent | Average | Poor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18-25 | 49-55 | 56-61 | 70-73 | 82+ |
| 26-35 | 49-54 | 55-61 | 71-74 | 83+ |
| 36-45 | 50-56 | 57-62 | 71-75 | 83+ |
| 46-55 | 50-57 | 58-63 | 72-76 | 84+ |
Example Scenario
A 40-year-old male with a resting heart rate of 62 BPM would fall into the "Excellent" category for his age group. Conversely, if the same individual had a RHR of 85 BPM, it would suggest a "Below Average" fitness level, potentially indicating a need for more cardiovascular exercise or a lifestyle review with a healthcare provider.
Factors That Influence Your Results
Several variables can cause temporary fluctuations in your heart rate:
- Stress & Anxiety: High stress levels trigger the release of adrenaline, which increases BPM.
- Caffeine & Nicotine: Stimulants are known to temporarily raise heart rate.
- Hydration: Dehydration causes the blood volume to decrease, forcing the heart to beat faster to maintain pressure.
- Medications: Beta-blockers can lower RHR, while some asthma medications may raise it.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 BPM (tachycardia) or below 60 BPM (bradycardia) without being a trained athlete, please consult a physician.