What MAP tells you
Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is the average pressure in your arteries over one heartbeat — a better measure of organ perfusion than systolic alone. The estimate is MAP = diastolic + (systolic − diastolic) ÷ 3, because the heart spends about two-thirds of each cycle in diastole. A 120/80 reading gives a MAP near 93 mmHg. MAP describes pressure; rate is covered by the max heart rate calculator.
How to use this calculator
Enter your systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom) numbers from a blood pressure reading. The result is your estimated MAP in mmHg. Use a properly sized cuff and a rested measurement for accuracy. Exercise intensity zones come from the target heart rate calculator.
Normal MAP range
A MAP of roughly 70–100 mmHg is generally considered adequate to perfuse the organs. Sustained values below about 60 may mean tissues aren't getting enough blood; persistently high values add strain. These are general references, not thresholds for self-diagnosis. Body weight influences blood pressure, so the BMI calculator is a useful companion reading.
Important
This is an estimate for general information only and is not medical advice. Blood pressure varies through the day and with stress, posture and technique. Discuss any concerns, or readings outside the normal range, with a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I calculate mean arterial pressure?
- Add the diastolic pressure to one-third of the difference between systolic and diastolic: MAP = DBP + (SBP − DBP) ÷ 3. For 120/80 that's about 93 mmHg.
- What is a normal MAP?
- Roughly 70–100 mmHg is generally considered enough to perfuse the organs, though context matters and this isn't a diagnostic threshold.
- Why divide by three?
- The heart spends about two-thirds of each cycle in diastole, so diastolic pressure is weighted more heavily in the average.
- Is a single MAP reading enough?
- No. Blood pressure fluctuates, so clinicians look at trends and context. Discuss concerns with a healthcare professional.
- Which arm should I take the reading from?
- Use the arm that consistently reads higher, and stay with the same arm so readings compare fairly. A few mmHg of difference between arms is common, but a persistent large gap is worth mentioning to a healthcare professional.