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 heartbeat, or heart rate, is the number of times your heart beats per minute. It's a vital sign that helps assess the overall health and fitness level of an individual.
Related terms
Cardiovascular System: This is the body system that includes your heart and blood vessels, which work together to circulate blood throughout your body.
Pulse: This is essentially another way to measure your heart rate by feeling it on different parts of your body such as wrist or neck where arteries are close to skin surface.
Arrhythmia: This term refers to irregularities in heartbeat rhythm. It's like when our drummer loses his beat; it can cause problems with how effectively our 'band' (body) performs.