What is the typical cardiac output (Q) at rest?

The typical cardiac output at rest is approximately 5 liters per minute. This reflects the amount of blood the heart pumps through the circulatory system in one minute, which is essential for supplying oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues.

At rest, a healthy adult's heart generally pumps about this amount to maintain homeostasis and meet the baseline metabolic needs of the body. Cardiac output can vary based on factors like body size, fitness level, and overall health, but 5 L/min is a widely accepted average for a resting individual.

Higher values, such as 10, 15, or 20 L/min, are typically associated with vigorous physical activity or certain medical conditions where the body demands an increased level of blood flow, rather than being typical for a resting state. Understanding these values is crucial for fitness professionals in assessing cardiovascular health and developing appropriate training programs.