A good heart rate varies depending on your age, fitness level, and overall health. Generally, a lower resting heart rate indicates better cardiovascular health.
Resting Heart Rate by Age:
Here's a general guide to resting heart rate by age:
- Newborns (0-3 months): 100-150 beats per minute (bpm)
- Infants (3-12 months): 80-120 bpm
- Toddlers (1-2 years): 80-110 bpm
- Preschoolers (3-5 years): 70-100 bpm
- School-aged children (6-15 years): 60-90 bpm
- Adults (18-65 years): 60-100 bpm
- Older Adults (65+ years): 60-100 bpm
Factors Affecting Heart Rate:
Several factors can influence your heart rate, including:
- Fitness Level: People who are more physically fit typically have lower resting heart rates.
- Medications: Certain medications can affect heart rate.
- Stress: Stress can increase heart rate.
- Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can affect heart rate.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures can cause your heart rate to increase or decrease.
Monitoring Your Heart Rate:
You can monitor your heart rate using a variety of methods, such as:
- Wrist-worn fitness trackers
- Smartwatches
- Chest straps
- Manual pulse checks
When to Consult a Doctor:
If you experience any of the following, consult your doctor:
- A resting heart rate that is consistently above 100 bpm
- A heart rate that is consistently below 60 bpm
- A heart rate that fluctuates significantly
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
It's important to note that these are just general guidelines. Your individual heart rate may vary depending on your unique circumstances. If you have any concerns about your heart rate, talk to your doctor.
