NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What term describes a resting heart rate lower than 60 bpm?

1. Tachycardia

2. Bradycardia

3. Arrhythmia

4. Hypercardia

The correct answer is: Bradycardia

A resting heart rate lower than 60 beats per minute is termed bradycardia. This condition can occur in athletes and individuals who are very physically fit, as their hearts are more efficient and can pump blood with fewer beats. In contrast to other options, tachycardia refers to an elevated heart rate exceeding 100 bpm, often associated with stress, exercise, or medical conditions. Arrhythmia describes irregular heartbeats, which can include both fast and slow rates, but it doesn't specifically indicate bradycardia. Hypercardia is not a standard term in cardiovascular terminology and does not apply to this context. Therefore, bradycardia accurately defines the condition of a lower-than-normal resting heart rate.