A pulse is the measurable expansion of an artery that occurs with each contraction of the heart, representing the heart rate or the number of times the heart beats per minute. This rhythmic throbbing is caused by the surge of blood pushed through the arteries following a heartbeat. Monitoring this simple physical sign is a foundational step in observing your cardiovascular health. Regularly checking your pulse provides immediate insight into how efficiently your heart is circulating blood through your body and helps detect changes that may warrant further attention.
Locating the Radial Pulse Point
To prepare for an accurate measurement, first find the radial artery, the most common and easiest pulse point to access on the wrist. Extend one arm with your palm facing upward, then use the opposite hand to locate the area. The radial pulse is situated on the lateral side of the wrist, aligned with the thumb.
Place the pads of your index and middle fingers gently on the wrist, just below the base of your hand. The artery lies close to the radius bone, making the pulsation easy to feel. Use only the index and middle fingers for this measurement. The thumb contains its own distinct pulse, and using it can lead to an inaccurate count of your heart rate.
The Step-by-Step Measurement Technique
Once you have located the pulse point, apply gentle but firm pressure with the pads of your fingers. You should press just enough to clearly feel the rhythmic throbbing of the artery beneath your skin. Pressing too hard can compress the vessel, which may temporarily stop the blood flow and make the pulse disappear entirely.
You will need a timepiece with a second hand, such as a watch or a clock, to accurately time the counting period. When you feel the first pulsation, begin counting the beats and simultaneously start your timer. Each distinct throbbing sensation felt beneath your fingertips is counted as one beat.
For the most accurate assessment of your heart rate, count the beats for a full 60 seconds. This full-minute count is particularly recommended if you suspect your heart rhythm may be irregular. A common alternative for a quicker reading is to count the beats for 30 seconds and then multiply that number by two.
For a reading to be considered your resting heart rate, ensure you have been sitting quietly and relaxed for at least ten minutes before beginning the measurement. Taking the pulse at the same time each day, such as first thing in the morning, helps establish a consistent baseline. If you cannot find the pulse on one wrist, try the process again on the opposite arm.
Interpreting Pulse Rate and Rhythm
The measured pulse rate is expressed in beats per minute (bpm) and provides information about the heart’s function. For most healthy adults, a normal resting heart rate falls between 60 and 100 bpm. A rate consistently below 60 bpm is termed bradycardia, while a rate above 100 bpm is known as tachycardia.
A lower heart rate often signifies a higher level of cardiovascular fitness, as a stronger heart pumps blood more efficiently with fewer beats. Highly conditioned athletes may naturally have a resting rate in the range of 40 to 60 bpm. However, for a non-athlete, a consistently slow or fast resting rate may signal an underlying health issue.
Beyond the rate, pay attention to the rhythm, which is the pattern of the beats. A healthy pulse should feel regular, meaning the time interval between each beat is consistent. If the beats feel like they are skipping, fluttering, or coming at uneven intervals, the rhythm is considered irregular.
If your measured resting heart rate is regularly outside the 60 to 100 bpm range, or if you detect an irregular rhythm, consult with a healthcare professional. Seek medical advice if an abnormal rate or rhythm is accompanied by symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, or shortness of breath.