ECG Heart Rate Calculator
Calculate heart rate from ECG strips using multiple methods
Calculate Heart Rate from ECG
Measure the distance between two consecutive R wave peaks
Heart Rate Results
Normal resting heart rate for adults
Clinical Note: No immediate concern
Calculation Details
R-R Interval: 20 mm
Paper Speed: 25 mm/s
Duration: 0.800 seconds
Heart Rate = 60 ÷ 0.800 = 75 BPM
Quick Calculation Methods
300 Rule (Big Boxes)
Method: Count big boxes between R waves
Formula: Heart Rate = 300 ÷ number of big boxes
Example: 4 big boxes = 300 ÷ 4 = 75 BPM
1500 Rule (Small Boxes)
Method: Count small boxes between R waves
Formula: Heart Rate = 1500 ÷ number of small boxes
Example: 20 small boxes = 1500 ÷ 20 = 75 BPM
Normal Heart Rate Ranges
Heart Rate Categories
Bradycardia (<60 BPM)
Slow heart rate - may be normal in athletes
Normal (60-100 BPM)
Normal resting heart rate for adults
Tachycardia (>100 BPM)
Fast heart rate - assess for causes
Measurement Tips
Measure from peak to peak of consecutive R waves
Check multiple R-R intervals for consistency
Use 6-second method for irregular rhythms
Standard paper speed is 25 mm/s
Small box = 1mm, Big box = 5mm
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. ECG interpretation requires specialized training and clinical context. This tool assumes regular heart rhythms for R-R interval calculations. For irregular rhythms or arrhythmias, consult with a cardiologist or qualified healthcare professional. Always verify ECG findings with proper medical equipment and clinical correlation.
Understanding ECG Heart Rate Calculation
What is Heart Rate?
Heart rate is the number of heartbeats per minute, representing how often the heart contracts to pump blood throughout the body. On an ECG, each heartbeat is represented by a series of waves, with the R wave being the most prominent.
Why Measure from ECG?
- •More accurate than pulse palpation
- •Detects irregular rhythms and arrhythmias
- •Provides permanent record for analysis
- •Shows beat-to-beat variability
Calculation Methods
R-R Interval Method
Most accurate for regular rhythms. Measures time between consecutive R waves.
300/1500 Rule
Quick mental calculation using ECG boxes for regular rhythms.
6-Second Method
Best for irregular rhythms - counts beats over 6 seconds and multiplies by 10.
Clinical Significance
Bradycardia (<60 BPM)
- • Normal in athletes and elderly
- • May indicate heart block or sick sinus syndrome
- • Can cause fatigue, dizziness, syncope
- • May require pacemaker in severe cases
Normal (60-100 BPM)
- • Typical resting heart rate for healthy adults
- • Can vary with fitness level, age, medications
- • Lower end normal in physically fit individuals
- • Higher end may indicate stress or caffeine
Tachycardia (>100 BPM)
- • May indicate fever, dehydration, anxiety
- • Can be caused by medications or stimulants
- • May suggest hyperthyroidism or anemia
- • Severe cases may require immediate treatment