The measurement of the heart’s rate when the body is at complete rest, typically taken after a period of inactivity, is a key indicator of cardiovascular health. Fitbit devices estimate this rate by monitoring heartbeats during periods of inactivity, often while sleeping. The device analyzes the heart rate data collected throughout the day and night, identifying the lowest sustained rate. For example, if a Fitbit detects a consistent heart rate of 60 beats per minute (bpm) over an extended period during sleep, that value may be considered the resting rate. The resting heart rate is a noun phrase that refers to the beats per minute while someone is at rest.
Understanding the resting heart rate provides valuable insights into overall fitness. A lower rate often indicates better cardiovascular efficiency, as the heart doesn’t need to work as hard to pump blood throughout the body. Tracking trends in this metric can help individuals monitor their fitness progress, detect potential health issues, and assess the effectiveness of lifestyle changes like increased exercise or stress reduction. Historically, manual pulse taking was the standard; wearable technology now allows for continuous, automated monitoring, offering a more comprehensive view.
