Your pulse is caused by throbbing arteries as your heart contracts and forces blood through them. You can determine your heart rate -- the number of times your heart beats every minute -- by measuring your pulse. Your heart rate doesn't always stay the same, however. Understanding how to interpret your pulse can help you assess your health and get the most out of exercise.
Your Resting Heart Rate
A healthy resting heart rate for adults is generally 60 to 100 beats per minute and a healthy resting heart rate for children is generally 70 to 100 beats per minute, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, getting exercise on a regular basis makes your heart muscles stronger, which would mean your heart doesn't have to beat as frequently to pump out the same amount of blood. As a result, well-trained athletes may have resting heart rates as low as 40 beats per minute.
Maximizing Exercise
Your maximum heart rate is the fastest your pulse can get. You can predict your own maximum heart rate by subtracting your age from 220. If you're 30, your predicted maximum heart rate is about 190. However, you would need to undergo a graded exercise test to determine your actual maximum heart rate. Don't ever aim to exercise to the point where you reach your maximum heart rate; you will reap the most benefits and reduce risks of injury by exercising within a zone called your target heart rate zone. Keep your pulse within 60 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate to stay within your target heart rate zone during exercise. If you're new to exercise, begin at about 50 percent of your target heart rate and gradually work up to 70 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate, recommends the American Heart Association.
Heart Rate Variations
Your heart rate likely fluctuates on a regular basis depending on a variety of external factors. Common factors that can cause your heart rate to increase and decrease include your activity level, the temperature of the air, your body's position, your emotions, your body size and use of certain types of medication, according to MayoClinic.com.
Cause for Concern
An abnormal pulse can indicate health problems. You may have a health problem if your resting heart rate is regularly above 100 beats per minute or regularly below 60 beats per minute when you're not an athlete, according to MayoClinic.com. Also be aware of potential related symptoms, such as fatigue, fainting and weakness. An irregular pulse, such as one that skips beats or feels strong, may also indicate a health problem. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about your pulse.
