Benchmark · Resting Heart Rate

Resting Heart Rate by Age

AHA-referenced resting heart rate population data by age group and sex, including athlete comparison benchmarks.

Resting heart rate by age and sex (bpm)

AgeMales — MedianMales — Normal RangeFemales — MedianFemales — Normal RangeAthlete Range
18–256862–787265–8240–55
26–357063–807367–8342–57
36–457164–827368–8444–59
46–557265–837468–8545–60
56–657365–847469–8546–62
65+7366–857570–8648–63

Sources: Jensen MT et al. Int J Cardiol. 2012. AHA Guidelines. Values represent resting morning measurements.

Trend is more important than a single reading: A resting heart rate that is trending downward over weeks of aerobic training is clinically meaningful regardless of absolute value. A sudden increase of 5–7 bpm above personal baseline is a reliable signal of physiological stress.
Not medical advice: Benchmark data is for educational reference only. Consult a qualified clinician for health concerns.