Resting Heart Rate (RHR) Calculator
Measure your cardiovascular health in seconds
How to Calculate Your Resting Heart Rate
Your resting heart rate (RHR) is the number of times your heart beats per minute (BPM) while you are at complete rest. It is a vital indicator of your overall cardiovascular fitness and heart muscle efficiency. A lower RHR generally implies more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Pulse
To get the most accurate reading, measure your pulse first thing in the morning before getting out of bed or after sitting quietly for at least 10 minutes. Avoid caffeine or nicotine for at least an hour before measuring.
- Find your pulse: Use your index and middle fingers. The most common spots are the Radial Pulse (inside of your wrist below the thumb) or the Carotid Pulse (on the side of your neck, just beside your windpipe).
- Start counting: Use a stopwatch or a clock with a second hand.
- Count the beats: Count every "thump" you feel for a specific duration (15 or 30 seconds is standard).
- Use the calculator: Enter your count and the duration above to find your beats per minute.
What is a Normal Resting Heart Rate?
For most healthy adults, a normal resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, many factors influence this number:
| Category | BPM Range |
|---|---|
| Elite Athletes | 40 – 50 BPM |
| Highly Fit Adults | 50 – 60 BPM |
| Average Healthy Adult | 60 – 80 BPM |
| Sedentary / Poor Fitness | 80 – 100+ BPM |
Calculation Example
If you count your pulse for 15 seconds and feel 17 beats, the calculation is:
17 (beats) ÷ 15 (seconds) = 1.133 beats per second
1.133 × 60 (seconds in a minute) = 68 BPM
Factors That Can Raise Your RHR
- Stress and Anxiety: High emotional stress triggers the nervous system to speed up the heart.
- Temperature: When temperatures or humidity rise, the heart pumps a bit more blood.
- Dehydration: Low blood volume forces the heart to beat faster to maintain pressure.
- Medication: Beta-blockers can lower RHR, while some cold medicines or thyroid medications can raise it.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. If your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 BPM (tachycardia) or below 60 BPM (bradycardia) and you are not an athlete, please consult a medical professional.