Pulse is the mechanical, rhythmical expansion and contraction of the vessel walls, which is dependent on cardiac action and the compression wave triggered by the heart. In a narrower sense pulse is the expansion of the arteries that can be determined by taking measurements at certain points on the body.
If the pulse is too high it places above-average strain on the heart! (Example pulse rate calculation)
Pulse rate (number of beats per minute) can be determined easily and reliably by taking a manual reading. There are various areas where the pulse can be taken, but the arteries on the wrist (radial pulse), neck (carotid pulse) or on the temple (temple pulse) are used most often as the arteries run close to the surface and can be pressed against the bone. Wearing a pulse watch will allow seamless monitoring over a longer period, for example during exercise.
Although pulse appears to be a trivial physiological occurrence, it allows conclusions to be drawn regarding factors that influence it, in particular heart rate, heart rhythm, blood pressure and vessel filling volume.
The pulse reacts quickly to stresses and strains of all kinds. The pulse rate also often increases after smoking and drinking coffee or alcohol. Consequently, only the longer-term average value of the resting pulse is suitable for monitoring purposes. The best time to take a pulse is first thing in the morning. Significantly increased pulse rates (5 to 10 beats/min) may indicate overload or too little rest. An on-going reduction in the average pulse rate can be seen as an improvement in basic stamina.
The resting pulse depends on age and is also dependent on level of fitness. The following guideline values can be used:
| Optimum resting pulse | |
| Children and young people (not exercising) | 80 to 90 beats/min |
| Adults (not exercising) | 60 to 80 beats/min |
| Exercising | 40 to 50 beats/min |
No critical lower ranges are given in the Overview of the ranges used in the GMON due to the possible effects of exercise.
The recovery pulse rate is particularly important although no absolute statements can be made due to accompanying circumstances that vary greatly. However, as a guideline value this should be approximately 30% lower than the pulse under strain approximately 3 minutes after the respective strain has been removed. High values indicate a lack of ability to recover and may indicate overload or possible health problems.
Overview of the ranges used in the GMON
Example pulse rate calculation