Does having a lower RHR mean less cardiovascular risk factors?
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Andy Tapia
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Excercise Science
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Pragya Sharma Ghimire
Abstract:
Evidence suggests that resting heart rate (RHR) is a significant indicator of mortality risk, with higher and lower rates correlating with adverse outcomes. Consequently, exercise emerges as a crucial yet often underestimated tool for improving RHR and promoting overall health. Endurance training and yoga, in particular, have been shown to reduce RHR and effectively support lifestyle modifications beneficial to health. Currently, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) rank as the leading cause of death worldwide. At the same time, treatments such as blood thinners and beta blockers can alleviate these conditions. One often overlooked factor is the relationship between resting heart rate (RHR) and mortality. Studies have reported a semi-logarithmic relationship suggesting that heartbeats per lifetime remain relatively constant. However, humans, with an average life expectancy of around 80 years, deviate from this pattern, potentially due to factors like medication, scientific advancements, and lifestyle choices.
Furthermore, a clear association exists between higher RHR and elevated risk factors such as lipid profiles and blood pressure. By focusing on lowering RHR, individuals may potentially alleviate the risk of obesity and hypertension, thereby improving cardiovascular health. Therefore, this study aims to understand the significance of RHR as a predictor of mortality and advocates for lifestyle interventions, including exercise, to improve cardiovascular health and prolong life expectancy. We will investigate the relationship between RHR and CVD risk factors by categorizing participants into two groups based on their RHR levels: a control group with lower RHR and an experimental group with higher RHR. We also hypothesized that individuals with lower RHR will exhibit fewer CVD risk factors than those with higher RHR.