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Question
13 Mar 2003
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Pulse
Is there a way and how to check your fitness level by your pulse
FitnessDoc
Hi Teek
As you get fitter, so your resting pulse usually decreases, since your heart muscle gets stronger. This is how you measure your resting pulse:
Rest for at least 5 minutes in a seated position before assessing your resting heart rate. You can measure your pulse at:
a) the radial artery - on the anterolateral aspect of the wrist in line with the base of the
thumb.
b) the carotid artery - in the neck just lateral to the larynx (voice box).
Procedure
1. Use the tip of the middle and index fingers. Do not use the thumb because it has its own
pulse that can result in an inaccurate measurement.
2. If palpating the carotid artery, do not apply heavy pressure to the area.
3. Start the stopwatch simultaneously with the beat of the pulse. Count the first beat at
zero, then continue counting for 60 seconds.
The value that you get is your resting heart rate. After a few months of training, you might find it decreases.
As you get fitter, so your resting pulse usually decreases, since your heart muscle gets stronger. This is how you measure your resting pulse:
Rest for at least 5 minutes in a seated position before assessing your resting heart rate. You can measure your pulse at:
a) the radial artery - on the anterolateral aspect of the wrist in line with the base of the
thumb.
b) the carotid artery - in the neck just lateral to the larynx (voice box).
Procedure
1. Use the tip of the middle and index fingers. Do not use the thumb because it has its own
pulse that can result in an inaccurate measurement.
2. If palpating the carotid artery, do not apply heavy pressure to the area.
3. Start the stopwatch simultaneously with the beat of the pulse. Count the first beat at
zero, then continue counting for 60 seconds.
The value that you get is your resting heart rate. After a few months of training, you might find it decreases.
The information provided does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition. You should consult a medical practitioner or other appropriate health care professional for a physical examination, diagnosis and formal advice. Health24 and the expert accept no responsibility or liability for any damage or personal harm you may suffer resulting from making use of this content.
