Key Human Body Systems Associated with Physical Activity

The Cardiovascular System

Heart: a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout the body.
Blood vessels (Arteries, veins, capillaries): arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the body, veins return deoxygenated blood to the heart, and capillaries connect arteries and veins.
Blood: carries oxygen and nutrients to body cells and removes waste products.
Exercise can lead to an increase in heart rate, stroke volume, and cardiac output, which improves cardiovascular fitness and endurance.

Bones: provide structure and support to the body, protect organs, and aid movement.
Joints: where bones meet, permitting movement in the body.
Muscles: contract and relax to facilitate body movement.
Ligaments and tendons: ligaments connect bones to each other, while tendons connect muscles to bones.
Exercise can lead to increased muscle strength and flexibility, and improved bone density.

Lungs: where oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide.
Trachea and bronchi: tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs.
Diaphragm: a muscle that aids breathing.
Exercise can lead to increased breathing rate and volume, better lung capacity, and improved aerobic fitness.

Aerobic system: uses oxygen to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to release energy.
Anaerobic system: does not require oxygen and can only break down carbohydrates for a short period of intense exercise.
Exercise can lead to more efficient use of energy sources and increased ability to perform high-intensity exercise.

Brain and spinal cord (central nervous system): process and relay information.
Autonomic nervous system: controls body functions we don’t think about like the heartbeat and digestive system.
Peripheral nerves: transmit information between the central nervous system and the body.
Exercise may lead to improved reaction times and co-ordination.

Remember, all these systems work together during physical activity, and regular exercise can significantly enhance their performance and efficiency.