Instructions

• 1). Put the tips of the index, middle and ring fingers on the underside of your other wrist. The fingers should be laying below the base of your thumb, according to Cleveland Clinic. You can also place the tips of your index and middle fingers on either side of your windpipe on your lower neck.
  
  
• 2). Push down lightly with the fingers still in place until you can feel the pulsing of the blood under your fingertips. It's often difficult to find the spot on the first try, so keep moving your fingers slightly until you find the blood pulsing.
  
  
• 3). Count the number of beats after 10 seconds using a watch or a clock with a second hand. This takes concentration, especially after exercising, because the beats often pulse quickly, making it easy to lose count.
  
  
• 4). Multiply the number of beats after 10 seconds by six to find your heart rate (in beats per minute). Take note of how you feel and do this every time you exercise.
  
  
• 5). Familiarize yourself with your resting target heart rate and maximum heart rate in accordance with your age. For instance, a 20-year-old should have a resting heart rate of 120 to 170 and a maximum heart rate of 200; a 70-year-old should have a resting heart rate of 90-128 and maximum heart rate of 150. If you are way over your maximum heart rate for your age, see a doctor.