Heart rate calculator in beats per minute
Count your pulse for 10, 15, 30 or 60 seconds and convert it to beats per minute (bpm). Add age and measurement context to see an estimated maximum heart rate and moderate and vigorous exercise zones.
How to measure your pulse
- Rest quietly for several minutes when measuring resting heart rate.
- Place two fingers over the radial pulse at the wrist or carotid pulse at the side of the neck. Do not press both sides of the neck.
- Count beats for the selected interval. A full 60-second count is preferable when the rhythm feels irregular.
- Enter the count and interval, then select whether the measurement was taken at rest or during exercise.
Heart rate formula
Heart rate (bpm) = beats counted ÷ seconds counted × 60
Example: 18 beats in 15 seconds = 18 ÷ 15 × 60 = 72 bpm.
What is a normal resting heart rate?
For many adults, 60–100 bpm is commonly cited as a resting range. Well-trained athletes may have lower readings. Fitness, stress, posture, temperature, hydration, sleep, illness, caffeine and medicines can all affect the result.
| Resting result | General interpretation |
|---|---|
| Below 50 bpm | Can occur with high fitness, sleep or medicines; symptoms matter. |
| 50–100 bpm | Common adult resting range. |
| Above 100 bpm | May be temporary or may need assessment if persistent at rest. |
Estimated maximum and exercise zones
This calculator uses 208 − 0.7 × age as an age-based maximum-heart-rate estimate. Moderate intensity is displayed at 50–70% and vigorous intensity at 70–85% of that estimate. These ranges are planning guides, not individual limits.
Medication, fitness, heat, altitude and medical conditions can change the relationship between heart rate and effort. Perceived exertion and professional guidance may be more appropriate for some people.
Accuracy and safety
A short pulse count magnifies counting errors. Counting one extra beat over 15 seconds changes the estimate by 4 bpm. Wearables can also be affected by motion, sensor contact and skin perfusion.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I count my pulse?
Sixty seconds is most direct and is preferred for an irregular rhythm. Shorter counts are convenient but multiply counting error.
When should I measure resting heart rate?
Measure after several quiet minutes, in a consistent position, before exercise or stimulants when possible.
Is 60–100 bpm normal for everyone?
It is a common adult reference, not a diagnosis. Athletes, medicines and individual health can shift expected values.
How is maximum heart rate estimated?
This page uses 208 − 0.7 × age. Any age-only equation has substantial individual variation.
Are exercise zones exact?
No. They are approximate percentages of an estimated maximum and should be adjusted for health, fitness and professional advice.
Can this calculator detect an irregular heartbeat?
No. It converts a count to bpm. An irregular rhythm requires appropriate clinical assessment.