General questions for a beginner exerciser

[DeniseFI]

So I have had a Fitbit for years and my resting heart rate is (was) 58-62 for a long time, fluctuating throughout the month. I started exercising a few weeks ago, nothing huge, elliptical a few times a week, an under-desk elliptical at work, and walking whenever I can. Like I said, nothing majorly strenuous in my perceived intensity, and my HR is generally 115-135 during the workouts.

So this last month, since I started exercising, my resting HR has gone way, way up. It is generally about 68-74. Was my relatively low RHR before sort of a "false" sense of being fit but actually just a sign of incredible sedentarism? I am getting a bit disappointed that I seem to be going in the opposite direction (yet again) while trying to get fit. Is there a break-in period and it will take a few months for it to adapt? I thought I was doing a good thing but looking at my numbers, you wouldn't know it. 😞

[Dominique]

Although you did say "nothing huge", "nothing majorly strenuous", increased activity could mean increased stress, and increased stress can translate into increased RHR, especially if you’re not able to fully recover. How do things like calories burned and active minutes compare at the monthly level (January vs. previous months)? Trying to assess the level of disruption. 

[DavideFitbit]

There are many things that can have an impact on your heart rate information @DeniseFI, I have a similar case to yours, I used to have a lower heart rate than I do now, but I actually lost 30 pounds since I started using Fitbit a few years ago. 

As @Dominique mentioned earlier, it tuned out that my heart rate had increased because of the stress, so I've changed a few things in my life that have helped me to relax a bit more and I've also changed my diet plan. 😀

[Heather-S]

For me, light walking does nothing to reduce my resting heart rate and in fact increases it slightly.  I have to do vigorous cardio activity 3-5 times per week for at least 30 minutes to see a decrease.  I also have to keep my sodium down, no alcohol, and have good sleep.  

As a woman, my menstrual cycle also impact my RHR significantly during the month.

Anything could cause a jump in your RHR.  If you have any concerns, you should speak with your physician.  

[emili]

adding my two cents.. as long as there are no health reasons for exercising, you are actually doing amazing things for your heart by moving. that little guy is a muscle and just like all muscles, use it or lose it. To help it work efficiently and to help it gain strength, having a less sedentary lifestyle is a must. Increasing and decreasing resting heart rate is indicative of more things that exercise. Stress, cold temperatures, hot temperatures, humidity, sodium, fitful sleep, medication- the list is very long. If you feel good, not dizzy or weak or winded - keep that little guy busy and happy