Abstract: A pulse rate indicator automatically indicates a person's pulse rate and changes in this rate. The indicator is individually programmed for each user to account for the overall physiological characteristics of the user. The indicator may be mounted on a wristband and the pulse count is averaged over a time increment, stored and displayed as a reference or rest value. As the user undergoes physical exercise, the subsequent pulse rate is visually indicated and compared with the reference or rest value. When the pulse rate increases, but not to a dangerous level, the color of the indicator changes to inform the user that continued exercise is permissible. When an excessive pulse rate is reached, the indicator changes color and an audible alarm is sounded. The programmable feature therefore allows each person to exercise up to his particular limits for physical fitness tailored to his own physiological makeup, with sufficient advance warning to avoid excessive strain on the heart.