How does an athlete’s heart rate differ from that of an average person?

Generally, athletes have relatively slower heart rates. Long-term physical training or heavy manual labor enhances cardiac function, resulting in a lower resting heart rate. However, it is also important to assess whether symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, palpitations (redundant—consider revising), or shortness of breath are present. Further evaluation may include complete blood count, chest X-ray, echocardiography, carotid Doppler ultrasound, and 24-hour Holter monitoring to rule out significant cardiac abnormalities.