1. What is Heart Rate?

Heart rate is the number of heartbeats per minute (bpm). It's a vital sign that provides important information about cardiovascular health and fitness.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the heart rate formula:

Where:

• \( Beats \) — Number of pulses counted
• \( Time \) — Duration of measurement in seconds
• 60 — Conversion factor from beats per second to beats per minute

Explanation: The formula converts your counted beats over a measured time period into the standard beats-per-minute measurement.

3. Importance of Heart Rate Measurement

Details: Monitoring heart rate helps assess cardiovascular health, exercise intensity, and can indicate potential medical conditions when values are outside normal ranges.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Count your pulse for a period of time (typically 15-60 seconds) and enter the number of beats and time duration. For more accuracy, measure for longer periods.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal resting heart rate?
A: For adults, 60-100 bpm is normal. Athletes may have lower resting rates (40-60 bpm).

Q2: Where are the best places to measure pulse?
A: Wrist (radial artery) or neck (carotid artery) are most common. Use fingertips, not thumb.

Q3: How does exercise affect heart rate?
A: Exercise increases heart rate. Maximum heart rate is roughly 220 minus your age.

Q4: When should I be concerned about my heart rate?
A: Consult a doctor if resting rate is consistently above 100 bpm (tachycardia) or below 60 bpm (bradycardia) with symptoms.

Q5: Can medications affect heart rate?
A: Yes, many medications (like beta blockers) can lower heart rate, while others (like stimulants) can increase it.