What Should the Pulse Be and When Is It Dangerous?

The question “What should my heart rate be?” often creates confusion because heart rate is not a fixed number—it changes according to age, gender, physical activity, lifestyle, and overall health status. In fact, the pulse provides valuable clues about the circulatory system, heart efficiency, and even the body’s response to stress.

While general reference ranges exist, it’s important to remember that what is normal for one person may not be normal for another. That is why the numbers given below should be seen as a guide rather than a strict rule. If your pulse regularly deviates from the average—either too high or too low—especially if you also feel unwell, you should consult a healthcare professional.

What Is Heart Rate?

Heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times the heart contracts and relaxes in one minute, measured in bpm (beats per minute). A normal resting heart rate usually reflects a healthy heart that can pump blood efficiently. If the heart rate is consistently outside the expected range, it can point to stress, illness, dehydration, or underlying cardiovascular conditions.

Is Heart Rate the Same as Blood Pressure?

No. Heart rate refers to the rhythm and speed of the heartbeat, whereas blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against artery walls. While the two are connected, they are not the same. For example, someone may have a normal blood pressure but a higher-than-normal heart rate during fever or anxiety. Conversely, a person may have high blood pressure but still have a normal pulse.

What Should Heart Rate Be by Age?

Heart rate naturally changes throughout life. Children’s hearts beat faster because their bodies and metabolic needs are greater. As people grow older, the heart becomes more efficient, and resting heart rate tends to decrease.

In Infants and Children

• Newborn (0–1 month): 70 – 190 bpm
• 1–11 months: 80 – 160 bpm
• 1–2 years: 80 – 130 bpm
• 3–5 years: 80 – 120 bpm
• 6–11 years: 75 – 110 bpm
• 12–15 years: 60 – 100 bpm

At these ages, a higher pulse is considered normal, but values consistently above or below the ranges require pediatric evaluation.

In Adults

• 16 years and older: 60 – 100 bpm at rest

For most healthy adults, 70–80 bpm is considered optimal.

In Athletes

Well-conditioned individuals may have a resting heart rate as low as 40–60 bpm, especially during sleep. This is not a sign of illness; it indicates that the heart muscle is stronger and works more efficiently.

When Is Heart Rate Considered Dangerous?

Low Heart Rate (Bradycardia)

• Defined as less than 60 bpm in non-athletes.
• If accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath, it could point to thyroid disorders, heart rhythm problems, or medication side effects.

High Heart Rate (Tachycardia)

• Resting heart rate above 100 bpm.
• Causes include fever, anxiety, dehydration, anemia, thyroid disorders, or arrhythmias.
• If the heart rate exceeds 120 bpm at rest and is accompanied by chest pain, palpitations, or fainting, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.

What Factors Affect Heart Rate?

Heart rate is influenced by multiple factors:

• Gender: Women generally have slightly higher resting heart rates than men.
• Sleep quality: Resting heart rate falls during deep sleep and rises with sleep deprivation.
• Fever or infection: Each degree of fever can raise the heart rate by 10 bpm.
• Medication: Beta-blockers slow down heart rate, while stimulants (caffeine, decongestants) speed up.
• Emotions: Stress, fear, or excitement cause temporary increases.
• Fitness level: Regular exercise lowers resting heart rate.

When Should You Measure Your Heart Rate?

• Immediately upon waking: Before leaving bed, to observe your natural resting value.
• After 10 minutes of rest: For the most accurate baseline.
• Post-exercise: To see how quickly your heart rate returns to normal—an indicator of cardiovascular fitness.

Pulse by Age, Gender, and Occupation

Children and Adolescents

• Higher pulse is natural due to growth and faster metabolism.
• If values are too high during rest, it may signal fever, dehydration, or anemia.
• For active teens, resting heart rates may approach adult levels earlier.

Adult Women

• Hormonal cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can cause fluctuations.
• During pregnancy, a mild increase in resting pulse is considered normal.
• Stress management and hydration are especially important.

Adult Men

• Resting heart rate is slightly lower compared to women.
• Sedentary lifestyles and smoking can increase pulse, even at rest.
• Regular exercise improves heart efficiency and lowers resting heart rate.

Elderly (65+)

• Resting heart rate usually stabilizes between 60–80 bpm.
• Consistently irregular or rapid pulses should be evaluated, as they may indicate atrial fibrillation or another arrhythmia.

Athletes

• Stronger heart muscles result in slower resting pulses (40–60 bpm).
• A sudden unexplained increase in pulse can indicate overtraining, dehydration, or illness.

Sedentary Workers (Office jobs)

• Sitting for long hours can lead to higher resting pulse and cardiovascular risks.
• Regular breaks, stretching, and hydration help regulate heart rate.

Physically Demanding Jobs (construction workers, nurses, teachers)

• Activity-related increases are normal, but resting heart rate should still fall between 60–100 bpm.
• Excessive fatigue or persistently high resting rates may suggest overexertion or anemia.

Night-shift Workers

• Irregular sleep can elevate resting heart rate.
• Consistent routines, proper hydration, and controlled caffeine intake are essential.