Exercise has a profound effect on all of the systems of the body -- both while you exercise and as a result of your regular workouts. Some of the effects result in increased energy for your workouts whereas others make subsequent exercise sessions easier. Many of the effects of exercise are readily visible, such as increased breathing rate or muscle fatigue, while other effects are far less obvious, such as the effect that exercise exerts on your hormonal system.
Cardiovascular System
Your cardiovascular system consists of your heart and lungs which work together to take in and transport oxygen around your body. As you work out, your heart rate and breathing rate increases to ensure that enough oxygen is delivered to your working muscles. As a long term result of regular training, your cardiovascular system becomes more efficient and better able to meet these demands. Cardiovascular fitness is closely linked to cardiovascular health -- if your heart and lungs are in good condition you are less likely to develop chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease and suffer acute medical conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.
Skeletal System
Although your bones are avascular, that is to say they have a very limited blood supply, they are still affected by exercise. In the short term there is an increased secretion of synovial fluid in your joints. Synovial fluid lubricates your joints and also nourishes the hyaline cartilage that covers the ends of your bones. As a long-term result of exercise, bones and ligaments get stronger and less prone to injury. Stronger, denser bones play a vital roll in the prevention of osteoporosis -- a medical condition characterised by porous bones that are prone to fracture.
Muscular System
Regardless of the type of exercise you are performing, muscles are responsible for all of your movements. As you work out, your muscles demand an increased supply of oxygenated blood. Blood is diverted from non-essential areas of the body to ensure your muscles receive the blood that they need. Blood vessels in and around your muscles open up to allow for the increased blood flow -- a process called vasodilation. The increased blood flow results in warmer, more pliable muscles.
In the long term, your muscles get stronger and therefore better equipped to withstand the rigors of your workouts. Muscle fibers get bigger and stronger and new capillaries develop so that blood flow and metabolic waste removal is more efficient.
Neuroendocrine System
Your neuroendocrine system is the combination of your nervous and hormonal systems which work together to govern all of your body's functions. During exercise your adrenal glands secrete adrenalin which dilates your airways and speeds up your heart rate. The hormone glucogon triggers the conversion of glycogen into glucose to provide energy for your muscles. Nerve pathways open up and nerve impulses travel more quickly than usual so that your reactions are quicker and your muscles work more efficiently. In the long term, exercise results in a balancing of your nervous and hormonal systems, regulation of your blood glucose levels and improved neuromuscular skills such as balance, coordination and proprioception. Regular exercise also enhances your immune system
References
- "Principles of Anatomy & Physiology, Ninth Edition"; Sandra R. Grabowski & Gerald J. Tortora; 2000
- "Anatomy and Physiology for Dummies"; Donna Rae Siegfried; 2002
- "Anatomy of Exercise: A Trainer's Inside Guide to Your Workout" Pat Manocchia; 2009
