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2013-03-08 6:53 AM

Regular
226
10010025
Saint Petersburg, FL
Subject: Low resting heart rate

Hello All:  was trying to figure out which forum to ask this and settled on here ... Had my annual check up this year, after recently switching primary docs.  My resting heart rate is any where from upper 30's to low 40s.  The last couple have been around 43-44.  My doc says it isn't a concern but it seems the nurses always react differently.  Now let me explain, I'm not a marathoner and only do sprints.  I'm about 5'10" and 220 and not setting any land speed records.  Build more like a halfback than a triathlete. 

Should I be concerned about my low resting heartrate?  What does it mean?

Thanks,

Bruce



2013-03-08 7:22 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Regular
1023
1000
Madrid
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
I'm not a doctor but think it should probably be looked at in conjunction with your blood pressure.
2013-03-08 7:29 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Champion
10668
500050005001002525
Tacoma, Washington
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
I get the same reaction all the time. I just say I'm a triathlete, and they calm down.
2013-03-08 7:29 AM
in reply to: #4651383

Regular
226
10010025
Saint Petersburg, FL
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
BP was good. 
2013-03-08 7:58 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Expert
1028
100025
Detroit, MI. Kinda.
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
Unless you're having symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, vision problems, chest pain, difficulty breathing...I wouldn't be worried.
2013-03-08 8:01 AM
in reply to: #4651343


4

Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate

Bruce I’m not a doctor but you should get a second opinion so that you don’t get in any serious problem.



2013-03-08 8:11 AM
in reply to: #4651444

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Master
2725
200050010010025
Washington, DC Metro
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate

Zero2Athlete - 2013-03-08 8:58 AM Unless you're having symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, vision problems, chest pain, difficulty breathing...I wouldn't be worried.

I'd say this^^^

Low resting HR is fairly normal for many athletes.  Even those who are not "setting land speed records".  If the heart is pushing enough blood and O2 to get the job done in 45 beats per minute then I'd say good on 'ya.

Normal caveats... I'm not a doctor, 2nd opinions are always good...

2013-03-08 8:28 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Extreme Veteran
635
50010025
Georgia
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
I would guess your Doc is on the right track. A few years ago when my exercise routine was on track, my resting hr was around 40. I was concern about Bradycardia and like yours, my Doc wasn't too concern. Fast forward several years, plantar faciitis both feet and patella femoral both knees has put me on the sidelines for a long time.Due to the injuries current exercise program is very much reduced in intensity and duration. RHR has increased 10-15bpm.  Have you always had a low RHR?
2013-03-08 8:51 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Pro
15655
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Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
My wife has worked out about 45 minutes a day for 20 years, nothing over-the-top, just moderate exercise, stationary bike, walking, etc.....her resting HR is 36.
2013-03-08 9:16 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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over a barrier
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
I track my resting HR during big training block sessions (first thing in the morning). My morning HR ranges from 38-42 in the AM. I can generally tell when the fatigue is building as it slides up to 46-48 range.

People in endurance sports have low resting HR especially as they get more fit. Also Genetics play a role as well, similar to different people have different LT HR.

2013-03-08 10:57 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Master
3195
20001000100252525
Just South of Boston
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate
Unless you have some other underlying problem, its not an issue, IMO. Mine is usually 42/44, and it never fails to freak out the nurses who do the vitals at the office. In particular at the sleep doc I see (apnea sufferer) their typical patient is an inactive fat guy, so I'm a bit of an exception, and every time they go and get the doctor after checking it 2 or 3 times.


2013-03-08 11:01 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Veteran
869
5001001001002525
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate

Get the same thing here.  I'm 5'10'' 185lbs.  Not setting any records here either but am in good shape. 

 

When I go to the Doctors office (which is often now for a non related condition).  My BP is usually 113/57 with a RH of around 42-44 with 99% O2.  If it's a new nurse they always seem to thing I'm on the verge of about to pass out.  Tell them I am a triathlete, then they just look at me like I'm crazy.

2013-03-10 7:46 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Veteran
216
100100
WICHITA FALLS, Texas
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate

Concur with low resting heart rates are actually a norm for athletes. I'm going on 51, 6'1", 210lbs and my resting HR is usually from 31 to 40 or so.. For me that has been normal for decades (I was in Special Forces for nearly 30 years). Athletic HR..... Simple...

However, I'm NOT a qualified Doc and if you are seriously concerned about it, even after the comments from like individuals, including myself, then get another opinion from a specialist. Of course, if you check with enough people, you'll eventually get the answer you want to hear and/or have been hearing all along.

2013-03-10 9:04 AM
in reply to: #4651343

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Champion
7036
5000200025
Sarasota, FL
Subject: RE: Low resting heart rate

The place to start with questions like this is always your doctor.  

Just for the record, I'm 59, I mostly do sprint tri's, and am a former football player built like a fireplug.  My resting HR is 41 bpm and my BP is 118/70. 

You're probably fine, but ancedotal evidence from strangers is not a good basis for making health decisions.

Mark

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