Outstanding athletes often exhibit which of the following heart rate characteristics?

Outstanding athletes often exhibit a low resting heart rate, which is indicative of improved cardiovascular efficiency and fitness levels. This characteristic is primarily due to adaptations from regular and rigorous training. As athletes engage in consistent endurance training, their hearts become more efficient at pumping blood, allowing for greater stroke volume. This means that, at rest, their hearts do not have to beat as frequently to deliver an adequate amount of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and organs.

Consequently, a lower resting heart rate is often a sign of a well-conditioned cardiovascular system, where the heart can meet the body's demands with fewer beats per minute. Over time, many trained athletes may have a resting heart rate that is significantly lower than the average person, often falling within the range of 40 to 60 beats per minute, whereas untrained individuals typically have resting heart rates ranging from 60 to 100 beats per minute.

This characteristic is part of the physiological adaptations that contribute to an athlete's overall performance and endurance, enhancing their capabilities in their respective sports.