Resting Heart Rate

Purpose: There is a positive correlation between low heart rates of trained individuals and a reduction in cardiac exertion. 

Equipment: Index and middle fingers or heart rate monitor

Procedure: For measuring heart rate without the use of a heart rate monitor, palpation of the pulse at the radial artery is most common. Use index and middle finger and press against the radial artery on the lateral portion of the wrist. For resting heart rate, palpate for 15 seconds while counting HR, multiply beats by 4.