There are so many tests and metrics that we can examine to understand our body’s health. But one of the easiest measures to track on a daily basis is your resting heart rate (RHR). This number can tell you so much about your heart health, level of fitness and even stress.
What is Resting Heart Rate?
Your resting heart rate is the number of times your heart beats in a minute when you are at complete rest. A normal resting heart rate for the average adult ranges from 60–100 bpm. Yet generally healthy athletes may have resting heart rate from 40–60 bpm, which implies a well-performing heart.
What to wear to measure rest heart rate
Measuring your RHR is simple. You may use a fitness tracker, smartwatch or manually check your pulse on your wrist or neck. The most accurate reading is first thing in the morning, before you get up. For best results, count the beats for an entire minute.
What Your Resting Heart Rate Can Tell You
Your RHR can provide insight into your general health when taken under the right conditions. Here’s what it can indicate:
Heart Health
An elevated resting heart rate can indicate that your heart is under more stress. If your RHR is consistently higher than 80 bpm, this may be the sign of potential heart issues. Conversely, a lower RHR typically means you have a sound heart and cardiovascular system.
Fitness Level
Your resting heart rate has a lot to do with your level of fitness. Routine cardio activities like running, swimming or cycling strengthen your heart so it can more effectively pump and often reduce RHR.
Stress Levels
The more stress or anxiety you feel, the higher your levels of adrenaline can go, driving up your heart rate. If your RHR jumps out of nowhere, it could be due to mental or emotional stress.
Sleep Quality
High-quality sleep can help keep your heart pumping nromally. Lack of or poor-quality sleep can increase your resting heart rate over time.
Hydration and Illness
Unnecessary dehydration or overheating can elevate your heart rate. RHR may also transiently elevate with fever or infections.
How to Get a Better Resting Heart Rate
Regular Cardio Exercise
Even activities as simple as walking, jogging, swimming or biking can make your heart stronger and more efficient.
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration helps to maintain healthy circulation and decrease excess strain on the heart.
Practice Yoga and Meditation
Practicing meditation, and breathing exercises can reduce stress and keep a steady heartbeat.
Prioritize Sleep
Get 7–9 hours of sleep per night to keep your heart healthy.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Swap garbage foods, excess sayur and bad fats for fresh fruits, veggies + Omega-3 rich ingredients
When to Consult a Doctor
You will want to consult your doctor if your resting heart rate is consistently too low (100 bpm), especially if you have other symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness. Cardiologists can offer thorough assessment and direction.
Final Thoughts
Your resting heart rate is more than simply a number. It’s a its measure of fitness, stress and heart health. By checking it often and living a healthy lifestyle, you can keep your heart strong and flexible.
If you want a healthy, long-lived heart, begin monitoring your resting heart rate today. Watching this uncomplicated measure can serve as a tiny but potent reminder to live better.
Ready to begin your fitness journey?
Amazon Shop. Click Here
Website. Click Here
Youtube. Click Here
