Your heart rate is how many times your heart beats in one minute. The heart rate is measured to make sure the heart is functioning properly. Normal heart rates for men vary depending on age, but most adult men should have a heart rate between 60 and 100.
The Importance of Heart Rate
Heart rate is a good indicator of your overall health. A heart rate either above or below the recommended range can be a sign of a dangerous medical condition and can put you at a serious health risk. High pulses can indicate an infection or dehydration. In addition, heart rates are taken during critical emergencies to detect whether the heart still is pumping blood through the body.
Taking Your Heart Rate
You can take your heart rate by placing two fingers along a blood vessel. There are several areas where arteries pass close to the skin where the heart rate is commonly taken, allowing you to feel the pulse easily. Most often, the heart rate is measured at the neck or wrist.
You should rest at least 10 minutes prior to the test. To properly measure the heart rate, place two fingers on the neck or inside of the wrist or side of the neck and count the beats for 10 seconds, then multiply that number by six.
Normal Heart Rate for Men
Healthy resting pulse rates vary by age group. However, they are the same for both men and women. Children over 10 and adults should have a resting pulse range between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
Maximal Range
Maximal heart rate indicates how fast the heart is capable of beating. Your maximal heart rate is used for physical fitness. When exercising, it is recommended to get your heart rate between 50 and 85 percent of your maximal heart. In order to know if you are between 50 and 85 percent, you must know your maximal heart rate. The rule-of-thumb to finding your maximal heart rate is to subtract your age from the number 220. For example, if you are 35, your maximal heart rate is approximately 185.
Poor Results
A high pulse or a low pulse may be a sign of a health problem in men. If you suffer from either of these conditions, consult your physician. Irregular heart beats or a pulse that is very firm and lasts for several minutes can also be problematic and should be checked. If you cannot feel your heart rate, it could be because your arteries are blocked. This is a common symptom of atherosclerosis and diabetes.
