A good resting heart rate for most adults is generally between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm)
. A lower resting heart rate within this range often indicates more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness. For example, well-trained athletes may have resting heart rates closer to 40 to 50 bpm, which is considered normal for them due to their high fitness levels
. Factors such as stress, anxiety, hormones, medication, and physical activity level can influence resting heart rate
. If your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 bpm (tachycardia) or below 60 bpm (bradycardia) and you are not an athlete, it may signal an underlying health issue, and you should consult a doctor, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath
. In summary:
- Normal resting heart rate for adults: 60–100 bpm
- Lower resting heart rate (40–60 bpm) can be normal for athletes
- Consistently high (>100 bpm) or low (<60 bpm) resting heart rate in non-athletes may require medical evaluation
A lower resting heart rate generally reflects a healthier and more efficient heart