what should resting heart rate be

The normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, for most healthy adults, the range is between 55 and 85 beats per minute. Factors such as stress, anxiety, hormones, medication, and physical activity level can affect resting heart rate. Athletes or more active individuals may have a resting heart rate as low as 40 beats per minute, which is considered normal for them. Its important to note that a lower resting heart rate usually indicates more efficient heart function and better physical fitness. On the other hand, a resting heart rate that is unusually high or a maximum heart rate that is low may signify an increased risk of heart disease or other medical conditions, and should prompt a call to a doctors office, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as weakness, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath.