Checking your heart rate using your wrist is the same process as taking your pulse. The key to getting an accurate reading is in knowing which fingers to use and where to place them on your wrist. For example, you would not use your thumb because it has a pulse of its own and will disrupt your reading. Once you learn to check your heart rate using your wrist you can use this technique while you exercise to track the intensity level.
Step 1
Hold your left or right hand palm up. You can find pulse points in both wrists so the one you use is a matter of personal preference.
Step 2
Touch the index, second and third fingers of your other hand to your wrist, just below the pad of your thumb. You should feel your pulse in your fingertips.
Step 3
Watch a digital stop watch or a clock with a second hand and count the number of beats for 10 seconds. Multiply that number by six to get the total number of beats per minute.
Things You'll Need
- Digital stop watch, optional
- Digital watch, optional
- Clock with second hand, optional
References
- "Personal Trainer Manual"; American Council on Exercise; 2008
- "Physiology of Sport and Exercise"; Dr. Jack H. Wilmore, et al.; 2007
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