What is the normal resting pulse rate for a healthy adult?

• A. 40–60 bpm
• B. 60–100 beats per minute
• C. 100–120 bpm
• D. 80–120 bpm

Answer: (B)

A healthy adult at rest typically has a heart rate of about 60 to 100 beats per minute. This resting rate is measured when you’re quiet, relaxed, and not immediately after activity. It reflects how quickly the heart pumps blood when the body isn’t demanding extra flow for movement. Values below 60 can be normal for well-trained athletes or may indicate bradycardia if symptoms are present or if the person isn’t highly conditioned. Values above 100 at rest point toward tachycardia and can be caused by fever, dehydration, pain, anxiety, stimulants, or cardiac or systemic issues. That’s why the standard resting range is 60–100 bpm.