MEASURING HEART RATE AND PULSE RATE
5 videos • 0 views • by BHSA SCIENCE WARRIORS To measure your heart rate, you can check your pulse at your wrist or neck: 1. Wrist Sit down and rest for a few minutes. Turn your wrist so your palm faces up and feel for your pulse on the thumb side of your wrist, between your wrist bone and tendon. You can use the tips of your index and third fingers to feel for your pulse, applying gentle pressure so you can feel each beat. 2. Neck Place your index and middle fingers gently against the side of your neck, just below your jawline, or next to your windpipe. 3. Count Count the number of beats you feel for 15 or 30 seconds, using a stopwatch or other timing device. 4. Calculate Multiply the number of beats by 4 or double the number to calculate your beats per minute (bpm). For example, if you counted 40 pulses, your heart rate is 80 bpm. You can also use a device to measure your heart rate, such as a chest-band monitor, wrist or forearm wearable, or a device that connects to a mobile phone app. Chest-band monitors are generally the most accurate, especially when used correctly. Many factors can affect your heart rate, including age, fitness level, smoking status, and emotions. If you have any concerns about your heart rate, you should speak with a doctor.