A resting heart rate refers to the number of times your heart beats per minute while you are at rest. This vital metric is an essential indicator of your overall cardiovascular health and fitness level. When engaging in exercise, it is crucial to monitor your resting heart rate to ensure that your heart is functioning efficiently and effectively.
The human heart functions as a muscular pump, circulating blood throughout the body to deliver oxygen and nutrients to cells. A lower resting heart rate typically signifies a more efficient heart, as it requires fewer beats to circulate blood. To calculate your resting heart rate, find a quiet place to sit or lie down, and use your index and middle fingers to locate your pulse on your wrist or neck. Count the number of beats in 60 seconds, and this number will represent your resting heart rate.