Hey there doc, I'm a 38-year-old guy working in software, and I've noticed something strange lately. My resting heart rate used to be between 60-65 bpm when I'd check it after waking up, and that's when I was working out regularly. I was doing weight training five days a week focusing on different muscle groups each day. But ever since the lockdown and not being able to hit the gym for about two months, I've seen my resting heart rate drop to 50-55 bpm. It's weird because I thought it'd go the other way around without my workouts. Do you think this is something I should be concerned about or is it normal? What's happening here?

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 5+ Yrs

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it's great that you are monitoring your resting heart rate regularly. A decrease in resting heart rate can be a normal response to regular exercise and improved cardiovascular fitness. Since you have stopped your weight training routine for the past 2 months due to the lockdown, it is expected to see a decrease in your resting heart rate. However, if you are not experiencing any other symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath, a resting heart rate of 50-55 bpm is generally considered normal for physically active individuals. I recommend staying physically active with alternative home workouts or activities to maintain your cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, ensure you are getting adequate rest and managing stress levels. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and evaluation

Answered 18 days ago