Normal sitting still HR is around 38-40, laying down as low as 29. I know that is scary :-).

Before I started training I used to be in high 60s. In little over 2 years I got it down pretty significantly.

Jan

I'm usually about 45. I've seen 42. My brother kept setting off alarms during his shoulder surgury last year at about 38.

In the morning when I get up, I am around 44-46. To the post about seeking medical attention for a low 40's: Do not worry if you are fit. Many endurance athletes have heart rates that low. In fact, when Lance Armstrong was winning the Tours, his was in the 30's. Mine used to be in the 80's, but when i got in shape, it dropped significantly.

Usually around 46 when I wake up, but often as low as 42.

I've had a similar surgery experience. Proud moment indeed. And yes, I was going for a "record" by deep breathing. I think I hit 40. Rookie nurse thought the machine was broken.

Yeah, well I've never done an actual resting HR test, because from what i've heard isn't it supposed to be taken basically as soon as you wake up before you even move from the bed? I feel pretty comfortable in HR straps, but sleeping in one is another issue. Maybe I'm wrong on this tho

However, if we were all basing our resting HR on the same testing criteria (time of day, conditions, etc...) the numbers would be much more comparable

I ws denied life insurance a few years ago because my heart rate was in the low 40's. The nurse took my pulse several times and asked me if I was feeling well. I would like to believe it is from all the training but the truth is genetics probably play a big role in my case. My mom doesn't work out and never really has and she has a resting heart rate in the upper 50's. During the height of my training last summer I recorded a 44 upon waking up.

I had a sleep study done. They had to keep checking the leads and waking me up during the night as I kept on going below 40bpm. Dipped to 36 at one time. Needless to say they didnt study me too much as they kept on waking me up. LOL. My usual RHR is about 42. Before I started training it was way about 70.

...then make Death fight for it. ;). Typically my resting HR (laying dead still in bed at wake) has been as low as 46. When it starts to creep up I'm paying more attention to see if its Overtraining.

cheers
S.

42 - which makes it hard to give blood sometimes. When I go in, I climb the stairs a few times to get it over 50.

One of my clients has a staff cardiologist. He informed me that the only time he worries about a low heart rate in an athletic person is when there are symptoms that accompany it. He said it is not unusual to see a heart rate in the 30's. Now if you're sweating, feel weak, dizzy, etc., then you might want to consult a physician.

I stand corrected.

I am quite the opposite. I have doctor anxiety and my heart rate is usually very elevated when sitting in their office. The longer I sit the higher it gets.

From dummies.com..."Your resting heart rate is best measured when you first wake up in the morning, before your feet leave the sheets."

Thanks for the concern about my low HR. I do not have any symptoms described here or elsewhere and feel just fine. My doctor knows about the HR and did not indicate any need for additional screening. Also my HR climbs to low 40s when measured sitting or standing. It is only when I lay down or I'm very still while sitting that it goes to low or mid 30s.

Jan