The normal resting pulse or heart rate of an adult is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. When your pulse rate falls below this range, you are considered to have low pulse rate or bradycardia. This condition may be asymptomatic and not require treatment, or be severe enough to require medical intervention. In diagnosing your condition, your doctor may order an exercise test, which involves recording and monitoring your pulse rate as you walk on a treadmill.
The Treadmill or Stress Test
A stress or treadmill test is done by having an individual walk slowly on a treadmill while hooked to heart monitoring equipment. The pace is increased gradually, and the incline of the treadmill is adjusted to simulate a small hill. Different parameters such as blood pressure, breathing and your pulse rate are monitored during the test. This test will indicate if your pulse rate is showing an acceptable increase during exercise.
Low Pulse Rate Can be Normal
Normal pulse rate is a function of age and fitness level. Infants have pulse rates between 100 and 160 beats per minute, while children age 1 to 10 will have higher pulse rates than adults, being in the 70 to 120 beats per minute range, according to MedlinePlus. Adults who are very active will have lower than the accepted normal pulse rate. For an athlete, a pulse rate of 40 to 60 beats per minute is considered normal, even though it would be low for the average adult. This type of low pulse rate is not a medical problem and would not require a treadmill test for diagnostic purposes.
Symptoms of Low Pulse Rate
Your ability to take part in exercises such as walking on a treadmill may be impaired if your pulse rate is low. A low pulse rate results in the heart sending insufficient blood to the muscles and brain, and the resulting oxygen deficiency causes symptoms that could inhibit your exercise capability. Symptoms associated with low pulse rate include fainting, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pains and tiring quickly while exercising.
Preventing Low Pulse Rate
Adopting a lifestyle that lowers your risk of heart disease is the most effective way of avoiding low pulse rate. Participating in a regular exercise program such as walking on a treadmill will be beneficial in reducing your risk level. A healthy body weight and a diet that is low in fat with sufficient fruits, vegetables and grains and should also be part of your heart-healthy plan.
