What is the pulse, where can I find it, what does the pulse rate mean?

What is the pulse, where can I find it, what does the pulse rate mean? What is the practical value of the ability to count the heart rate?

A pulse is a rhythmic beat felt in an artery. This is an indicator of the pumping of blood by the heart. With each heartbeat, blood is thrown into the arteries. This pumping action (contraction) of the heart causes the arteries to expand rhythmically, which is felt when lightly touched. The most common place to sense the pulse is in the radial artery, located just above the wrist. Other places to sense the pulse include the carotid artery in the neck, brachial artery above the elbow, and the femoral artery in the groin.