Critically discuss the effects of exercise on the cardiovascular and respiratory system
The objective of this report is to critically explain the physiological effects of exercise on the human respiratory system and cardiovascular system. To begin with, I will explain the two systems, their specific functions and how they inter-relate. I will then go on to analyse the effects of exercise on the two systems by looking at the way in which the body deals with an increased workload, and any health issues that may affect this.
Cardiovascular system
This system is responsible for pumping blood and oxygen around the body. It is a network made up of blood vessels that transport carbon dioxide from the body to the lungs. The heart is an organ so needs a constant supply of oxygen. This is supplied by a separate network of blood vessels called the coronary system, made up of coronary veins and arteries. The heart is the size of a clenched fist, located slightly to the left of the chest. It is divided into left and right sides, has four chambers and works as a pump. Veins deliver deoxygenated blood from the body to the right side of the heart; this is known as Pulmonary Circulation. The heart then pumps this back to the lungs to absorb oxygen. Oxygenated blood returns to the left side of the heart which pumps it to the rest of the body through the arteries; this is known as Systemic Circulation. (Munford, K, 2012, cited in Bupa).
(diagram cited in Oxford174, 2014)
Respiratory System
This system is responsible for ensuring the body has a constant supply of oxygen, whilst removing carbon dioxide. It is made up of six organs and there are three major parts of the system; the airway, the lungs and the muscles of respiration. The respiratory system supplies the oxygen needed for the cardiac work load and its main function is gaseous exchange (Taylor, T cited in Inner Body).
(diagram cited in Buzzle, 2014)
Breathing volumes
(diagram cited in Buzzle, 2014)
Control of breathing by the medulla
Unlike the cardiovascular system
Cardiovascular system
This system is responsible for pumping blood and oxygen around the body. It is a network made up of blood vessels that transport carbon dioxide from the body to the lungs. The heart is an organ so needs a constant supply of oxygen. This is supplied by a separate network of blood vessels called the coronary system, made up of coronary veins and arteries. The heart is the size of a clenched fist, located slightly to the left of the chest. It is divided into left and right sides, has four chambers and works as a pump. Veins deliver deoxygenated blood from the body to the right side of the heart; this is known as Pulmonary Circulation. The heart then pumps this back to the lungs to absorb oxygen. Oxygenated blood returns to the left side of the heart which pumps it to the rest of the body through the arteries; this is known as Systemic Circulation. (Munford, K, 2012, cited in Bupa).
(diagram cited in Oxford174, 2014)
Respiratory System
This system is responsible for ensuring the body has a constant supply of oxygen, whilst removing carbon dioxide. It is made up of six organs and there are three major parts of the system; the airway, the lungs and the muscles of respiration. The respiratory system supplies the oxygen needed for the cardiac work load and its main function is gaseous exchange (Taylor, T cited in Inner Body).
(diagram cited in Buzzle, 2014)
Breathing volumes
(diagram cited in Buzzle, 2014)
Control of breathing by the medulla
Unlike the cardiovascular system