Resting heart rate

The resting heart rate is the rate at which the required amount of blood is pumped without any physical exercise. Normal values range from 50 to 100 beats per minute. It is a trait significantly influenced by genetics and correlated with life expectancy.

Heart rate (HR) is the number of times the heart contracts during a unit of time, usually one minute. For the body to function properly, the heart must pump blood at a certain rate and pressure. This rate can be determined at rest or in response to activity, depending on clinical interest.

The resting heart rate is the one that occurs in the absence of movement and for its determination the person must be seated or lying down and not have practiced physical activity just before. There is a wide range of normality, with normal levels between 50 and 100 beats per minute, depending on the individual. Resting heart rate is influenced by genetic factors, physical and psychological state, environmental conditions, posture, body size, medications, age and gender.

Generally, a lower resting HR indicates more efficient cardiac function and better cardiovascular fitness. For example, it is common for well-trained athletes to have a resting heart rate of less than 50. However, an unusually low (bradycardia) or high (tachycardia) resting HR may indicate a health problem, so it is important to consult your physician in either situation.