Baseline Heart Rate: Understanding the Key to Cardiovascular Fitness
– The normal pulse rate, or heart rate, should be between 60 to 100 beats per minute
– A heart rate over 100 beats per minute when at rest is considered fast and may be related to various health conditions
– A heart rate below 60 beats per minute when at rest is considered slow and may be normal for athletes, fit young adults, or those taking certain medications
– During exercise, it is normal for the heart rate to increase to 130 to 150 beats per minute or more
– Factors such as illness, fever, dehydration, anxiety, medications, and other health conditions can also cause changes in heart rate
– Dehydration can lead to a faster heart rate and palpitations
– Checking your pulse can help identify changes in heart rate or rhythm
– Irregular heart rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation, increases the risk of stroke
– It is important to speak to a doctor if you notice consistent fast, slow, or irregular heart rate