A normal resting heart rate for most adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). This range represents the heart beats per minute when a person is awake, relaxed, and not recently active. For well-trained athletes, resting heart rates can be lower, often between 40 and 60 bpm, because a lower heart rate at rest is a sign of efficient heart function and good cardiovascular fitness. Some additional points:
- A resting heart rate consistently above 90 bpm could indicate an underlying health issue.
- A resting heart rate below 60 bpm is not necessarily a problem for some individuals, especially athletes, but if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or fainting, it should be checked by a doctor.
- Factors like age, fitness level, medications, and emotional state can influence resting heart rate.
In summary, for a typical healthy adult, a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 bpm is normal, with lower rates often seen in physically fit individuals or athletes. Ideally, a rate between 55 and 85 bpm is considered good, with the lower the better in general fitness terms. This range applies when you are calm, at rest, and in a neutral environment with no recent exertion or stress.
