How to measure your pulse with this page
- Sit down and rest for five minutes so you measure your resting heart rate.
- Find your pulse. On the wrist: two fingers on the thumb side, just below the crease. On the neck: two fingers in the soft groove beside your windpipe. Don't use your thumb, which has a pulse of its own.
- Tap the pad or press any key with each beat you feel. Keep going for 15 to 20 beats.
- Read the number. If the steadiness score is low you probably missed a beat; press Reset and try again.
Normal resting heart rate
| Who | Typical resting BPM |
|---|---|
| Adults | 60–100 |
| Very fit adults and athletes | 40–60 |
| Children 6–15 years | 70–100 |
| Children 1–5 years | 80–130 |
| Babies under 1 year | 100–160 |
A reading of 64 or 72 BPM is completely ordinary for an adult at rest. Caffeine, stress, heat, illness and having just climbed the stairs all push the number up for a while.
This page counts what you tap; it isn't a medical device. If your resting pulse is often above 100 or below 50 without a reason like fitness training, or it comes with dizziness, chest pain or shortness of breath, talk to a doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
Questions
Is 64 BPM a good heart rate?
For an adult at rest, yes. It's inside the normal 60–100 range and on the calm side of it.
Why tap instead of counting for 15 seconds?
Counting for 15 seconds and multiplying by four turns one miscounted beat into an error of 4 BPM. Tapping measures the time between every beat, so after 15 beats the result is usually within 2 BPM.
Can I use it for my dog or cat?
Yes. Resting rates are different: dogs are usually 60–140 depending on size, and cats 140–220. Check with your vet if you're unsure.