1. What is Resting Heart Rate?

Resting Heart Rate (RHR) is the number of times your heart beats per minute while at complete rest. It's an important indicator of cardiovascular health and fitness level according to NHS guidelines.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the NHS recommended formula:

Where:

• Manual Count — Number of heartbeats counted
• Time — Measurement duration in seconds
• 60 — Conversion factor to get beats per minute

Explanation: This formula converts your manual pulse count over a specific time period into beats per minute, providing your resting heart rate.

3. Importance of RHR Measurement

Details: Monitoring resting heart rate helps assess heart health, track fitness progress, and identify potential health issues. A lower RHR typically indicates better cardiovascular fitness.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your pulse first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. Count the number of beats in a specific time period (usually 15, 30, or 60 seconds) and enter the values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal resting heart rate?
A: For adults, a normal resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Well-trained athletes may have RHR as low as 40 bpm.

Q2: When is the best time to measure RHR?
A: First thing in the morning before getting out of bed, after a good night's sleep, and before any physical activity or caffeine consumption.

Q3: How long should I count my pulse?
A: NHS recommends counting for a full 60 seconds for most accuracy, though 30 or 15 seconds can be used and multiplied accordingly.

Q4: What factors can affect resting heart rate?
A: Factors include fitness level, stress, medications, caffeine, temperature, body position, and emotions.

Q5: When should I be concerned about my RHR?
A: Consult a healthcare professional if your RHR is consistently above 100 bpm (tachycardia) or below 60 bpm (if not an athlete) with symptoms like dizziness or fatigue.