Multiply this number by six to get your heart rate (or pulse) per minute. What Is a Normal Pulse? A normal resting heart rate is usually 60-100 beats per minute. Your number may vary. Children tend to have higher resting heart rates than adults. What Is Maximum Heart Rate? The maximum heart rate is, on average, the highest your pulse can get. To calculate your predicted maximum heart rate, use this formula: 220 - Your Age = Predicted Maximum Heart Rate. For example, a 40-year-old's predicted maximum heart rate is about 180 beats per minute.