What is the average heart rate for adults?

The average heart rate for adults typically falls within the range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. This range is considered normal for the resting heart rate of adult individuals and is established based on physiological studies.

A heart rate under 60 beats per minute is classified as bradycardia and can indicate an issue in certain cases, while a heart rate above 100 beats per minute is termed tachycardia and may suggest stress, physical exertion, or medical conditions. Therefore, the range of 60-100 beats per minute reflects optimal cardiovascular function in a resting adult.

While other ranges may seem plausible, they are either below or above what is typically accepted in medical practice for healthy adults. For example, a range that starts at 50 beats per minute does not encompass some individuals whose resting rates might just be above this threshold, which is why the first option remains the standard reference.