Average Resting Breath Rate: What Is Normal?

Normal Respiratory Rate for Adults

The average adult at rest breathes 12 to 15 times per minute.

Factors Influencing Breath Rate

• Age: Rates are higher in children and lower in older adults.
• Fitness level: Athletes often have lower resting rates.
• Health conditions: Fever, anxiety, lung disease, or heart failure can increase rate.
• Medications: Certain drugs (e.g., opioids, beta-blockers) may slow breathing.

A rate consistently above 20 or below 10 breaths per minute at rest warrants medical evaluation.