Physiological Systems

Respiratory System

The respiratory system is responsible for exchanging gases between the body and the environment.
It includes the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
During exercise, the demand for oxygen increases, leading to an increase in the rate and depth of breathing.
This is achieved through the process of inspiration (inhaling), where air containing oxygen is drawn into the lungs, and expiration (exhaling), where waste carbon dioxide is removed.

The cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood, and blood vessels.
Its primary function is to transport oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products around the body.
The heart is a muscular pump that sends blood circulating around the body and adjusts the blood flow to meet the body’s demands during exercise.
Blood carries oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
Blood vessels include arteries, veins, and capillaries, each with specific functions in the transport and exchange of substances.

Composed of the skeletal system and the muscular system.
The skeletal system provides structure and support, while the muscular system allows movement.
Bones provide a rigid framework for the body and protect vital organs.
Muscles contract to produce movement at joints. They also generate heat to maintain body temperature.

Energy for exercise and movement comes from the breakdown of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
The body has three energy systems to produce ATP: the ATP-PC system, the anaerobic glycolysis system (lactic acid system), and the aerobic system.
The ATP-PC system provides energy for short, “explosive” efforts, the anaerobic glycolysis system for high-intensity exercise of short duration, and the aerobic system for sustained, low-intensity exercise.

The nervous system transmits signals between different parts of the body and coordinates actions and reactions.
It’s divided into the central nervous system (CNS), comprising the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), all other nerves in the body.
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a branch of the PNS controlling involuntary processes, like heart rate and digestion.

The endocrine system is a collection of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate functions like growth, metabolism, and sexual development.
Key glands involved in exercise include the pituitary gland, which secretes growth hormone, and the adrenal glands, which produce adrenaline during exercise.

The digestive system breaks down food into nutrients that the body can use for energy, growth, and cell repair.
It includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum.
Digestion begins in the mouth, where saliva breaks down some food molecules. Further digestion and absorption of nutrients occur as food moves through the stomach and intestines.