A normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm)
. Generally, a lower resting heart rate indicates more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness; for example, well-trained athletes may have resting heart rates closer to 40 to 50 bpm
. Resting heart rate can vary due to factors such as age, fitness level, stress, medications, and overall health
. For children and newborns, normal resting heart rates are higher and vary by age, with newborns having rates between 70 and 190 bpm and children over 10 years old having rates closer to adult ranges
. If an adult's resting heart rate is consistently above 100 bpm (tachycardia) or below 60 bpm (bradycardia) without being an athlete, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath, medical consultation is advised
. In summary:
- Normal adult resting heart rate: 60–100 bpm
- Well-trained athletes: 40–50 bpm
- Children and newborns: higher than adults, depending on age
- Heart rate outside these ranges may indicate health issues