Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The number of times your heart beats per minute.
Related terms
Resting Heart Rate: This is your heart rate when you are calm and relaxed – it’s like the drummer taking a break between songs.
Cardiovascular System: This system includes your heart and blood vessels, which work together to circulate blood throughout your body – think of it as a delivery service that keeps all parts of your body supplied with oxygen and nutrients.
The force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of our arteries – imagine this as water pressure in a garden hose; too much can cause problems!