What happens to resting heart rate after weeks of endurance training? Why does this happen? Explain your answer.
After weeks of endurance training, it is common for the resting heart rate to decrease. This happens due to the physiological changes that occur in the body as a result of training.
Endurance training, also known as aerobic exercise, involves prolonged physical activity that increases the heart rate and works the cardiovascular system. Over time, this type of training improves the efficiency and strength of the heart muscles. As a result, the heart becomes more effective at pumping blood, which leads to a lower resting heart rate.
During endurance training, the cardiovascular system adapts by increasing the size and strength of the heart. This allows the heart to pump a larger volume of blood with each beat. As the heart becomes stronger, it doesn't have to work as hard to meet the body's oxygen demands at rest. Therefore, the heart rate slows down during periods of inactivity, resulting in a lower resting heart rate.
Additionally, endurance training increases the number of capillaries and blood vessels in the body, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. With improved oxygen supply, the body becomes more efficient at removing waste products, reducing the workload on the heart.
It is important to note that the decrease in resting heart rate is a positive adaptation to endurance training. A lower resting heart rate indicates improved cardiovascular fitness and a healthier heart. It is one of the many benefits associated with regular aerobic exercise.