How to Take Pulse Rates in Swimming

Swimming can be competitive or relaxing.

Your pulse rate is the measurement of times that your heart beats per minute. Knowing what your pulse rate is while at rest and after physical exercise can determine your overall fitness level. Swimming is a great cardiovascular exercise that strengthens muscles, improves overall health and is fun. To measure the change in your heart rate, take your pulse before and after physical exercise.

Things You'll Need

• Waterproof watch

Instructions

1. Place your index and middle fingers onto the palm side of the wrist on the opposite hand under the thumb. Press until you can feel your heartbeat.

2. Use a waterproof watch and count your heartbeat for 20 seconds. Times this number by 3 to see how many beats per minute. This is your resting pulse.

3. Swim the desired amount of laps for your workout. Stop, take a few breaths and repeat steps 1 and 2. This is your pulse after exercise.

Tips & Warnings

• Determine your maximum heart rate to set a goal for overall fitness. For adults, a maximum heart rate is 220 minus their age. So for a 30-year old, the maximum heart rate is 190. When you take your pulse after exercise and it is near your maximum heart rate you are pushing your body to its maximum rate.

References

• WebMD: Pulse Rate Measurement
• Cleveland Clinic: Pulse and Target Heart Rate