Aerobic exercise and cardiovascular exercise are often used interchangeably. The definition of aerobic exercise is dynamic exercise of moderate to high intensity that uses large muscle groups for an extended period of time, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Benefits include lower risk of disease, decreased risk of premature death and improved ability to perform activities of daily living. During aerobic activity, there are increased demands on your cardiovascular system that are normal and aid in improving function.
Increased Heart Rate
When you are exercising, it is normal and desired to increase your heart rate. Your heart rate is measured in beats per minute, and at rest, it is low or steady. Once you begin moving the demand for oxygen increases so your heart begins to pump more often to supply blood to the working muscles. Your heart rate increases in direct correlation to the intensity of your exercise. So the harder you work out, the higher your heart rate.
Increased Respiration
Your breathing rate, or respiration, must also increase during aerobic exercise to supply necessary oxygen to your muscles. When you inhale, you bring in oxygen-rich blood to your lungs. In your lungs, oxygen and carbon dioxide trade places so that you can exhale the carbon dioxide and use the oxygen. You breathe faster to bring in more oxygen, and your heart pumps faster to get that oxygen to your working muscles. The more you exercise, the more efficient your body becomes at this process.
Increased Blood Pressure
High resting blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. During exercise, it is normal and expected for your blood pressure to increase up to a point. Your systolic pressure is the pressure exerted on your blood vessels when your heart contracts. This number can increase significantly if you are exercising at a high intensity. Your diastolic pressure is the pressure when your heart is between beats, and this only increases slightly during activity. If you are on certain blood pressure medications, such as beta blockers, your heart rate and blood pressure are controlled and will not go too high.
Blood Flow Changes
When you are at rest, your large muscle groups do not need a lot of oxygen. The majority of oxygen-rich blood is going to your core for your internal organs. When you begin to exercise, this blood flow shifts so that your large muscle groups are receiving more oxygen-rich blood to keep exercising. Your organs are only getting what they need at this point so that you can exercise and function properly. Once you cool down and go back to rest, the blood flow changes back to normal.
References
- "ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription"; American College of Sports Medicine; 2010
- "Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning"; National Strength and Conditioning Association; 2008
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