ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test 2025 - Free Health Coach Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

A resting blood pressure reading of 124/78 mmHg falls within the range classified as "normal" according to established blood pressure guidelines. Specifically, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association classify blood pressure values as follows:

- Normal: systolic < 120 mmHg and diastolic < 80 mmHg

- Elevated (formerly known as prehypertension): systolic 120-129 mmHg and diastolic < 80 mmHg

- Stage 1 Hypertension: systolic 130-139 mmHg or diastolic 80-89 mmHg

- Stage 2 Hypertension: systolic ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic ≥ 90 mmHg

In this case, the systolic reading of 124 mmHg is below 130 mmHg, which means it does not meet the criteria for elevated or stage 1 hypertension. Given that the diastolic reading of 78 mmHg is also below the threshold for elevated blood pressure, the classification should be that of "normal." This classification indicates that the individual does not currently show signs of high blood pressure and can be advised on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support cardiovascular health.