AboutLinda Erwin, M.S. Expertise Been teaching Aerobics since 1987 and have been an aerobic director in the past. I also have a solid background in nutrition.
Question Hello. I am 55-years-old today. I run for a hobby. My pulse is 120 bpm. On the internet, I find a wide variety of suggestions as to whether or not 120 is good, or bad, and what my pulse should be for a man my age; 55. I was wondering if you have any thoughts on this subject. That is, is 120 ok?
I have had the same pulse since age 49. I also read that as you get older, the pulse drops. Do you know why is that?
Thanks.
Answer Hi Samuel,
Happy Birthday! I need to clarify if your 120 bpm is when you are running or at rest. If it's at rest then that is very high and I would be at my Dr's office. If that is where it is when running then a lot depends on your resting pulse, if there are any medical conditions, medications, etc. It might be a good idea to check with your physician to find out what is best for you at your age. Keeping active will help strengthen your heart and lungs and to get your heart rate higher will take increasing your intensity. Ideally you want to have your heart rate within the 70-85% (percentile) of your maximum heart rate. If you feel good, your weight is in control, and there aren't any issues, I would say keep it going.
Good luck!
Linda
