The rate your heart is pumping when you have been sitting quietly for a while or when you are sleeping is your resting heart rate. This rate indicates your cardiovascular fitness level. The normal resting heart rate is 15 to 20 beats per minute slower than your “usual” heart rate. A person who is in good aerobic condition usually has a lower resting heart rate. Take your resting heart rate before you get up in the morning for the most accurate results.
