The pulse indicates how fast the heart is beating. Your pulse is also an indication of how well your heart is working and your level of health and fitness. It may sound difficult, but checking your pulse is actually easy and doesn't require any special tools. You can check your pulse by hand or using an electronic meter or heart rate monitor.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Counting Pulse by Hand
Step 1. Set up the timer
Look for a watch or wall clock. You should pay attention to the clock when counting the pulse. So get a digital or analog watch, or find the nearest wall clock so you can calculate your pulse correctly.
You can also use a stopwatch or timer on your phone
Step 2. Define the calculation area
You can count the pulse on your neck or wrist. Choose any area that is comfortable or where the pulse is easier to find. You can also check the pulse at the following points although it may be more difficult to detect:
- Temple
- Crotch
- Back of knee
- The top of the leg
Step 3. Place your finger in the correct position to feel the pulse
Press firmly, but not too hard. Place your index and middle fingers on the sides of your neck near your windpipe to locate the carotid artery. If you are measuring at the wrist, place two fingers between the bone and tendon on the radial artery.
- Do not press too hard on the carotid artery as it can cause dizziness.
- Locate the radial artery by drawing a line from under the thumb to the wrist. Then, feel the point between the wrist bone and the tendon to check for pulsating motion.
- Place the flat part of your finger on your wrist or neck for the most accurate results. Do not use fingertips or thumbs.
Step 4. Watch the clock
Decide whether to count your pulse for 10, 15, 30, or 60 seconds. Use a clock to count how many times your heart beats.
Step 5. Count the heart rate
When the timer reaches zero, start counting the number of times you feel the pulse on your wrist. Keep counting until the time reaches the second you choose.
Rest five minutes before counting your pulse to get an accurate resting heart rate. You can also take your pulse while you exercise to gauge how hard you are training
Step 6. Calculate the result
Record or remember how many times your pulse beats. The pulse is calculated in beats per minute.
For example, if your count is 41 for 30 seconds, multiply by two to get 82 beats per minute. If you count for 10 seconds, multiply by 6, and if you count for 15 seconds, multiply by 4
Method 2 of 2: Measuring Heart Rate with Monitor
Step 1. Get an electronic pulse counter
Use an electronic device if you have trouble counting your pulse by hand, want to check while exercising without stopping, or want really accurate results. Purchase or rent an electronic pulse counter at a medical supply store or major retailer. Use a smartwatch or download the phone app if you have one. Here are some things to consider:
- Hand bandages that are the right size
- Easy-to-read screen
- According to your needs and budget
- The use of pulse measurement applications is not always accurate.
Step 2. Connect the monitor to your body
First, read the product instructions. Then, place the monitor at the right point. Most monitors are mounted on the chest, finger, or wrist.
Step 3. Turn on the monitor
Once ready to check the pulse, activate the monitor. Make sure the number on the screen shows “00” when starting so that the results you get are accurate.
Step 4. Read the results
When finished, the monitor will automatically stop and display the calculated numbers. Check the screen and note what your pulse is.
Save data or measurements to track pulse over time
Tips
The normal resting pulse rate in a healthy person ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Certain factors such as fitness level, emotions, body size, and medications can affect pulse rate
Warning
- If your heart rate is always less than 60 beats per minute and you are not an athlete, call your doctor, especially if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and shortness of breath.
- Press gently while checking the pulse on the neck or wrist. If you press too hard, especially on the neck, you may become dizzy or fall.
- Seek medical attention if the resting pulse is always above 100 beats per minute.
- Normal pulse is stable and regular. If you notice extra pulses or miss one, call your doctor as it may be a sign of a heart problem.
