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Normal Pulse Rate for a Teenage Boy

A person's pulse rate is the number of times his heart beats in one minute. Sometimes this is called heart rate. A healthy pulse rate can vary due to age, size and activity level. If you are a teenage boy, or are the parent of a teenage boy, you might want to be aware of what a proper pulse rate is and variations to be aware of.

  1. Resting pulse

    • Resting pulse rate is the rate at which your heart beats when you are still. The average resting heart rate for a teenage boy can range from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A pulse rate outside this range should be checked by a doctor.

    Maximum heart rate

    • To calculate predicted maximum heart rate, subtract age from 220. For example, a 17-year-old would have an estimated maximum heart rate of 203 beats per minute. This is just a guideline, and can vary due to activity level, diet, heredity and general health.

    Target heart rate

    • Target heart rate is the optimal rate at which the body is functioning during exercise. Generally, target heart rate is 60 percent to 80 percent of maximum heart rate. A 17-year-old boy would have a target heart rate of 122 to 162. Exercising above this target heart rate can be risky to cardiac health and provides no additional benefit.

    Recovery rate

    • Recovery rate refers to how quickly the heart slows back down after exercising. The quicker your heart returns to normal, generally the healthier you are. To figure out your recovery rate, take your pulse 10 seconds after you stop exercising at your target heart rate. Take your pulse again one minute later. Subtract the second number from the first. This is your recovery rate. The higher the number, the better.

    Irregularities

    • Heart rate irregularities are common. The sensation of "missing" a beat, or having a quick "catch up beat" can be normal. Having regular check-ups and being aware of your regular heartbeat and blood pressure will help you to know if anything is wrong. The sensation of a racing heart or a heavily pounding heart for seemingly no reason can be signs of a panic disorder. If you feel chest pressure or pain, upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea or dizziness, see a doctor right away.

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