What is a person's typical exercise economy percentage?

Exercise economy refers to the amount of energy expended during physical activity at a steady state of exercise, typically expressed as a percentage of the maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max). A person's exercise economy can vary significantly based on several factors, including their fitness level, muscle composition, and the specific activity being performed.

Typically, an individual's exercise economy is around 20% of their VO2 max. This value indicates that only a portion of the maximum aerobic capacity is being utilized efficiently during submaximal exercises. A higher exercise economy signifies that an individual is using less energy to achieve a certain intensity of work, while a lower economy means more energy is required.

This concept is particularly relevant for activities such as running or cycling, where efficiency can greatly affect performance outcomes. Improving exercise economy is often a focus for athletes looking to enhance their endurance and overall performance, as it allows for greater distances to be covered with less fatigue.