How Low Can a Human Resting Heart Rate Go?
A low resting heart rate is often a sign of good cardiovascular health, but just how low can it drop? While most people have a resting heart rate between 60-100 beats per minute (BPM), some individuals—especially athletes—can go far lower.
Athletes: Resting Heart Rate as Low as 30 BPM
Highly trained endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and cyclists, can have resting heart rates as low as 30-40 BPM. Their hearts are so efficient that they can circulate blood with fewer beats, thanks to years of cardiovascular training.
The Lowest Human Resting Heart Rate Ever Recorded: 27 BPM
The world record for the lowest measured human resting heart rate stands at just 27 BPM. This extreme case is rare but showcases how much the body can adapt to intense endurance training.
Bradycardia: When Is a Low Heart Rate a Problem?
A heart rate below 60 BPM is called bradycardia. While it’s common in athletes, it can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, especially if accompanied by dizziness, fatigue, or fainting.
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How Fitness Levels Impact Resting Heart Rate
The stronger your heart, the fewer beats it needs to pump blood efficiently. People who exercise regularly, especially with aerobic activities like running, swimming, or cycling, tend to have lower resting heart rates than those who are sedentary.
Resting Heart Rate by Age: What’s Normal?
- Children (6-15 years): 70-100 BPM
- Adults (18+ years): 60-100 BPM
- Well-trained athletes: 30-50 BPM
Sleep and Heart Rate: The Natural Drop at Night
During deep sleep, the body relaxes, and heart rate naturally slows down. It’s not uncommon for a healthy person’s heart rate to drop to 40 BPM during sleep, particularly in those with good cardiovascular fitness.
Medication and Low Heart Rates
Some medications, such as beta-blockers, lower heart rate intentionally to reduce strain on the heart. If your heart rate drops too low, however, it can lead to dizziness or even fainting.
Can Your Heart Rate Be Too Low? When to See a Doctor
If a low resting heart rate is accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, confusion, or chest pain, it could be a sign of an underlying heart issue, such as an electrical conduction problem.
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How to Naturally Lower Your Resting Heart Rate
To improve heart efficiency and lower your resting heart rate, focus on regular aerobic exercise, stress management, and good sleep. A well-trained heart beats slower but pumps more efficiently, leading to better overall health.
The article is based on information from Illustreret Videnskab.
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