Normal Pulse Rate Guide: Resting, Sleeping & Exercise Rates

Pulse rates vary significantly during sleep, pregnancy, and exercise. Learn the normal ranges for women, teens, and infants, and identify causes for low heart rates.

What Is a Normal Heart Rate While Sleeping?

Published Aug,14 2017 | By Walt Pickut

Sleep represents an uninterrupted, unconscious resting time for your body and mind. Adults typically require 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily, according to 2015 recommendations from the National Sleep Foundation. During sleep, your heart rate normally slows due to complex regulatory mechanisms.

Walt Pickut has published peer-reviewed medical research since 1971. Pickut teaches presentational speaking and holds board registries in respiratory care and sleep technology. He is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the American Society of Business Publication Editors and is editor for "The Jamestown Gazette." Pickut holds bachelor's degrees in biology and communication, and master's degrees in physiology and mass communication.