Pulse Rate (BPM) Chart and Information

Definition

Pulse Rate (BPM)

Your pulse is defined as the rate at which your heart beats. Your pulse is usually called your heart rate, the number of times your heart beats each minute (bpm). The pulse may be palpated in any place that allows an artery to be compressed against a bone, such as at the neck (carotid artery), at the wrist (radial artery), behind the knee (popliteal artery), on the inside of the elbow (brachial artery), and near the ankle joint (posterior tibial artery). The pulse can also be measured by listening to the heartbeat directly (auscultation), traditionally using a stethoscope. You check your pulse rate by counting the beats in a set period (at least 15 to 20 seconds) and multiplying that number to get the number of beats per minute.

Main Digest

By checking your pulse and comparing the resulting beats per minute (BPM) using the pulse rate chart below, you can find out how well your heart is working and your general health and fitness levels.

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Pulse rates vary from person to person. The normal pulse rate for humans is usually 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, there are certain medical conditions, such as cardiac arrhythmia, which may alter the normal pulse rate of an individual. Other influencing factors include your age, gender, and fitness level.

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How To Check Your Pulse Rate

You can measure your pulse rate anywhere an artery comes close to the skin, such as in your wrist, neck, temple area, groin, behind the knee, or top of your foot.

• Wrist: You can check your pulse rate by placing the tips of your index, second and third fingers on the palm side of your other wrist, below the base of the thumb, or on your lower neck, on either side of your windpipe. Please do not use your thumb because it has a pulse you may feel.
• Carotid Artery: This is located in your neck, on either side of your windpipe. Be careful when checking your pulse in this location, especially if you are older than 65. If you press too hard, you may become lightheaded and dizzy.
• Heart Beat: Your pulse can also be measured by listening to the heartbeat directly (auscultation), traditionally using a stethoscope.
• Pulse Meter: Electronic pulse meters automatically check your pulse, and sometimes your blood oxygen level as well, in your finger, wrist, or chest. These devices are helpful if you have trouble measuring your pulse or wish to check your pulse while you exercise. Some exercise machines, such as treadmills, have a pulse meter built into the device.
• Beats Per Minute: Count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply this number by 4 to get your pulse per minute. Checking your pulse rates when resting, during exercises, or after it provides general information about your overall fitness level.

The chart below shows target heart rates for different ages. An adult's maximum heart rate is around 220 bpm, minus your age.

Heart Rate Explanations

• Tachycardia: Means the heart is beating too fast at rest (usually over 100 beats a minute (BPM))
• Bradycardia: A heart rate that is too slow (usually below 60 beats a minute(BPM))
• Target Heart Rate: You gain the most benefits and lessen the risks when you exercise in your target heart rate zone. Usually this is when your exercise heart rate (pulse) is 60 percent to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate - (Target Heart Rate Calculator and Chart)
• Maximum Heart Rate: The maximum heart rate is the highest your pulse rate can get. To calculate your predicted maximum heart rate, use the formula: 220 - Your Age = Predicted Maximum Heart Rate

NOTE: It is recommended that a physician be consulted for advice in event of doubts or therapy.

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