Your body is constantly sending signals – and your pulse is one of the most important. While many know that a pulse is simply your heart rate, that steady beat reveals much more. Paying attention to your pulse can give you valuable insights into your heart health.
Let’s explore what your pulse is telling you.
What Do Your Pulse Numbers Mean?
Your pulse, or heart rate, is measured in beats per minute (bpm). It naturally changes throughout the day based on your activity level, emotions and overall health.
- A normal resting heart rate for most healthy adults ranges from 60 to 100 bpm.
- A rate below 60 bpm can be healthy – especially in athletes – but if it’s too low and causes dizziness or fatigue, it may be a sign of bradycardia (a slow heart rate).
- A resting rate above 100 bpm is called tachycardia. This can mean your heart is working too hard due to stress, illness, dehydration or a heart condition.
One thing to note: Your pulse differs from your blood pressure, but both are important indicators of heart health.
Where to Find Your Pulse
You can feel your pulse at certain spots where an artery runs close to the surface of your skin. These are called pulse points. Common places to check include:
- Wrist (radial pulse): On the thumb side, just below the base of your palm
- Neck (carotid pulse): Beside your windpipe under your jaw – check only one side at a time
- Top of the foot (dorsalis pedis pulse): Near the ankle
- Groin (femoral pulse): In the crease where the top of the thigh and abdomen meet
To measure your pulse, count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply by four – or count for 30 seconds and double it.
Heart Rate and Exercise
Tracking your heart rate during exercise helps you get the most from your workouts. The key is to work out within your target heart rate zone:
- Maximum Heart Rate (MHR): 220 minus your age
(Example: For a 50-year-old, MHR = 170 bpm)
- Target Zone:
- 50-70 percent of MHR for moderate activity
- 70-85 percent of MHR for vigorous activity
Staying in your target zone helps improve cardiovascular fitness, burn calories and build a stronger heart – without overdoing it.
When to See a Doctor
If your heart rate is often too fast or slow, or you experience symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain or shortness of breath, don’t ignore it. These could be signs of a heart condition. Talk to a healthcare provider to find out what’s going on.
Your Heart, in Good Hands With Union Health
Understanding your pulse is a smart first step in caring for your heart. At Union Health, we offer expert heart and vascular care – including heart scan screenings
– to help you stay on top of your health. Don’t wait for warning signs. Start listening to your heart today.
Wondering what your pulse points are telling you about your heart health? Union Health's cardiovascular team can help you interpret those vital signs. Find a provider today.