You no longer need to measure your heart rate manually, as many smartwatches now feature real-time heart rate tracking. These devices not only monitor your heart rate but can also detect unusual rhythms, such as arrhythmias.

Understanding what constitutes a normal heart rate can provide insight into your overall health. It may also help identify signs of stress or underlying heart issues that require attention.

What is Heart Rate?

Heart rate refers to the number of heartbeats per minute, commonly known as BPM (beats per minute). Heart rates can vary widely among individuals, influenced by factors like physical activity, fitness level, age, and overall health.

What is Considered a Normal Heart Rate?

Normal heart rates differ significantly depending on age, fitness level, and physical condition.

Normal Heart Rate by Age

Resting heart rate ranges based on age are as follows:

• Newborns: 100-205 BPM
• Infants (4 weeks to 1 year): 100-180 BPM
• Toddlers (1-3 years): 98-140 BPM
• Preschoolers (3-5 years): 80-120 BPM
• School Age (5-12 years): 75-118 BPM
• Teenagers (13-18 years): 60-100 BPM
• Adults (18+ years): 60-100 BPM

Normal Heart Rate by Activity Level

Heart rate can be monitored at rest or during physical activity. Below are heart rate ranges associated with different activities:

• Resting Heart Rate

Resting heart rate is measured when the body is at rest, such as sitting or lying down after a few minutes. For adults, a resting heart rate typically ranges from 60-100 BPM.

Those who exercise regularly or are athletes may have a lower resting rate, around 40-60 BPM, which reflects an efficient heart.

• Heart Rate During Exercise

When exercising, heart rate increases with activity intensity. Heart rate calculations during exercise or intense activity are slightly different compared to resting.

During exercise, heart rate will increase according to the activity being performed. The target ranges based on intensity levels are:

• Warm-up Zone: 50-60% of maximum heart rate
• Fat-Burning Zone: 60-70% of maximum heart rate
• Aerobic Zone: 70-80% of maximum heart rate
• Anaerobic Zone: 80-90% of maximum heart rate
• Maximum Zone: 90-100% of maximum heart rate

To calculate your maximum heart rate, use this formula:

For example, if you are 40 years old, your maximum heart rate would be approximately 180 BPM. Staying within this rate during high-intensity activities can help maintain heart health.

Knowing these heart rate ranges allows you to keep a closer watch on your cardiovascular health. Seek medical advice if you notice a resting heart rate below 60 BPM or above 100 BPM without regular exercise or heavy physical activity.

Do you have further questions about understanding heart rate? Use the Ai Care health consultation service by downloading it on the App Store or Play Store.

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