Health & Fitness · Glossary
What is Resting Heart Rate?
Quick definition
The number of times your heart beats per minute when you are at rest. A key indicator of cardiovascular fitness.
Full explanation
Resting Heart Rate (RHR) is your heart rate when you are awake, calm, and not moving. Measured best in the morning before getting out of bed. Average RHR for adults is 60–100 bpm; athletes often have 40–60. Lower RHR generally indicates better cardiovascular efficiency — the heart pumps more blood per beat. A sudden sustained increase in RHR can signal illness, overtraining, dehydration, or stress. RHR tends to decrease with regular aerobic training. To measure: use a heart rate monitor or count pulse at wrist/neck for 60 seconds. RHR is one of the most reliable and simple health metrics available.
Related calculators
Calculators that use or explain Resting Heart Rate.
Related terms
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Last reviewed: June 15, 2026 • Category: Health & Fitness