The Basics: Resting Heart Rate

Resting heart rate defined

Resting heart rate (RHR) is the number of times your heart beats per minute while you are at complete rest. To ensure external factors like physical activity and stress don’t impact your metrics, Bevel measures your RHR while you are asleep. It’s important to note that while Bevel leverages your Apple Watch to collect data, it does not rely on the RHR measurement in Apple Health.

The significance of resting heart rate

Your resting heart rate is a reflection of your heart's efficiency in pumping blood and delivering oxygen throughout your body. A lower RHR is generally associated with better cardiovascular health and fitness. Here are a few reasons why keeping tabs on your RHR is essential:

1. Cardiovascular Fitness Assessment: A lower RHR generally indicates better cardiovascular health. It shows that your heart is strong and doesn't have to work as hard at rest.

2. Personal Fitness Level: As you become more physically fit, your heart also becomes more efficient at pumping blood. This efficiency translates to a lower RHR. Monitoring your RHR can help you track your fitness progress and the effectiveness of your workouts.

3. Health Monitoring: A consistently high RHR may be a sign of underlying health issues. Regularly tracking your RHR can help you detect potential problems early.

Interpreting resting heart rate

Now that you're measuring and tracking your RHR, what does it mean? Here's a general guideline for interpreting RHR:

1. Normal Range: An average RHR for adults falls between 70-78 beats per minute. Keep in mind that RHR varies with age and gender. Younger individuals and women tend to have slightly higher RHRs than older individuals and men. Knowing the baseline RHR based on your demographic can help you assess your heart health more accurately.

2. Trend Tracking: One isolated RHR measurement might not provide a complete picture. Instead, track your RHR trends over time. Is it gradually increasing or decreasing? This can help you identify changes and take appropriate action, whether that's tweaking your workout routine, reducing stress, or consulting a healthcare professional.

3. Baseline Comparisons: It's crucial to compare your RHR with your personal baseline. If you notice a sudden and significant increase in your RHR, it could be an early warning sign of an underlying health issue. Conversely, a consistent decrease might be a positive indicator of improved fitness.

By understanding the science behind your resting heart rate and consistently tracking it with Bevel, you can take proactive steps to optimize your cardiovascular health, manage stress, and ensure your overall wellness.