Cardiac Output

Definition

Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart pumps in one minute, essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues during exercise.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Cardiac output is the product of heart rate (the number of heartbeats per minute) and stroke volume (the amount of blood ejected by the left ventricle with each beat), typically measured in liters per minute. It reflects the efficiency of the cardiovascular system and its ability to meet the metabolic demands of the body, particularly during physical activity.

Benefits

• Increased cardiac output improves oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise.
• Higher cardiac output can enhance endurance and athletic performance.
• It helps maintain blood pressure during exercise.
• Supports recovery by efficiently clearing metabolic waste from muscles.

Examples

• During aerobic exercises like running or cycling, cardiac output increases to meet the body's heightened oxygen needs.
• Training adaptations, such as increased stroke volume, can lead to improved cardiac output in athletes.

Additional Information

• Importance: Cardiac output is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health and fitness levels. In clinical settings, it helps diagnose and manage conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system.

Related Terms

• Stroke Volume
• Heart Rate
• Cardiovascular Fitness
• Blood Pressure

References

• Cardiac Output: Clinical Importance and Measurement
• Physiology, Cardiac Output