Our pulse or heartbeat is a powerful indication of our health. The rhythmic, constant thumping of our heart reflects an intricate network of muscles, blood, and energy that works together to pump essential oxygen and nutrients to every cell in our body. But, why is it so crucial to monitor our pulse regularly?
For starters, our pulse rate can help detect several health issues in early stages, such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and even heart attacks. Physicians use the pulse rate as a basis to understand how well the heart is functioning. A healthy pulse rate ranges between sixty to a hundred beats per minute, but this varies depending on age and physical activity levels. The elderly and non-athletic people have a lower heart rate, while athletes may have a higher pulse because of their superb cardiovascular fitness.
Besides detecting underlying health problems, understanding your pulse rate can also benefit your fitness. A higher pulse rate may suggest your body is working hard to keep up with specific physical activity or a surge in adrenaline levels. In contrast, a lower pulse could indicate inadequate cardiovascular fitness. To improve your pulse rate, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial.
Studies have shown that regular exercise can help lower your resting heart rate, which is the pulse rate you have when you’re not exerting physical energy. Cardiovascular fitness can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease, obesity, and high cholesterol. Monitoring your pulse at different intervals during exercise can also help regulate your effort levels and prevent overexertion.
In conclusion, knowing how to measure your pulse rate and the benefits of doing so can help you take control of your health and maintain cardiovascular fitness. Our bodies are incredibly complex, but understanding our pulse rate is the first step towards maintaining optimal health.