cardiac output
Volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, calculated as stroke volume times heart rate.
Full Definition
Cardiac output represents the total volume of blood ejected by the left ventricle per minute, calculated as the product of stroke volume and heart rate, typically expressed in liters per minute. In sports cardiology, cardiac output assessment is fundamental for understanding exercise capacity and cardiovascular fitness, as trained athletes can achieve cardiac outputs exceeding 35-40 L/min during maximal exercise compared to 20-25 L/min in untrained individuals. This enhanced cardiac output results from increased stroke volume due to cardiac remodeling and improved contractility. Measurement techniques include thermodilution, Doppler echocardiography, and indirect methods using oxygen consumption during exercise testing.
Usage
Usage note: Include units (L/min) when reporting specific values; distinguish from cardiac index.
In Context
- "The elite cyclist achieved a peak cardiac output of 42 L/min during maximal exercise testing." — exercise physiology report
- "Cardiac output reserve is an important determinant of exercise capacity in athletes with heart disease." — clinical assessment