Reasoning for measuring your breath rate?

Answer 1

This depends entirely on why the breath rate (assuming you mean breaths per minute) or respiratory rate is being measured. From a fitness point of view, the respiratory rate is an indication of cardiovascular fitness. During exercise when there is increased demand for Oxygen by the body - the ability of the body to effectively meet that need without causing the person to feel like they are going to pass out is an indication of the ability of the cardio and respiratory systems to respond. After exercise for instance a very fit person will be able to "catch their breath" quite quickly compared to a person unused to physical exertion. Alterations in respiratory rate can be an indication or symptom of illness, or in the presence of a known illness alterations can be a sign of improvement or deterioration. Young children and babies for example, "breath up" or increase their breath rate when in pain, when dehydrated, when overheated (feverish) and for many other reasons. A rapid breath rate in anyone, (child or adult) that is not associated with exercise - is also a sign that the heart may be working much harder that usual. In short, measuring the respiratory rate is a useful indication of health.