Your heart rate is the number of times your heart beats per minute (bpm). Whether you’re working hard on the farm, enjoying a family gathering, or resting after a long day, your heart changes its beat to match your activity or feelings. When you are excited or working, the beat speeds up; when you are relaxed or sitting quietly, it slows down.
What’s a normal heart rate?
According to cardiology experts, our heart beat changes its pace as we journey through life:
- Babies and young children have faster heartbeats, sometimes over 100 beats per minute, because their tiny hearts work very quickly.
- For grown adults and the elderly, a usual resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Resting means you are calm, sitting, or lying down.
- Athletes or very fit people might have even slower heartbeats, sometimes in the 40s or 50s, showing a strong and efficient heart.
- For our cherished elders between 65 and 90 years, a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is generally normal, but each person is unique, so knowing your usual pace is important.
A Normal Heart Beat by Age ( These rates are when you’re awake and not exercising. They may be lower when you’re asleep. They may be faster when you’re active.).
| Age | Normal resting heart rate* |
| Birth to 4 weeks (newborn) | 100 to 205 bpm |
| 4 weeks to 1 year (infant) | 100 to 180 bpm |
| 1 to 3 years (toddler) | 98 to 140 bpm |
| 3 to 5 years (preschool age) | 80 to 120 bpm |
| 5 to 12 years (school age) | 75 to 118 bpm |
| 13 to 17 years (adolescent) | 60 to 100 bpm |
| 18 and above (adult) | 60 to 100 bpm |
Source: Cleveland Clinic
The Relationship Between Heart Rate and Age
As we age, the heart often slows down slightly but still keeps the vital rhythm of life. However, changes are common, and sometimes the heart speeds up or slows down due to health, stress, or medications. Learn more about heart rate and age here.
Next Steps
Knowing your heart rate is a powerful, simple step that puts your health firmly in your hands. Just as Psalm 42:1 beautifully reminds us, “As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after Thee,” our hearts beat not only to sustain our physical life but also echo the deep longing of our spirit for connection with our Savior. Embrace this harmony of body and soul, take our free heart test today and step confidently toward a life of true vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is a heartbeat of 70 normal?
Yes, for most adults and elders, a heartbeat of 70 beats per minute is perfectly normal. The average resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute according to the American Heart Association and Cleveland Clinic. - Is a resting heart rate of 80 good?
Yes, a resting heart rate of 80 beats per minute is within the healthy range for most people. Resting heart rates between 60 and 100 beats per minute are generally considered normal for adults. - Is a heart rate of 120 normal?
Usually no, unless you are very active or stressed. A resting heart rate of 120 beats per minute is considered high (tachycardia) and should be checked by a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions. - Is it normal for my heart rate to go from 60 to 90?
Yes, it is normal for your heart rate to vary from 60 to 90 beats per minute. Your heart rate changes with activity level, emotions, and overall health. This variability is a normal response to physical and emotional factors.
