Urban Health HQ

What is exercise physiology?
Exercise physiology is the study of how the body responds to physical activity and the adaptations made as a result.

What is the cardiovascular system?
The cardiovascular system is comprised of the heart, blood vessels, and lungs. The role of the cardiovascular system is to transport oxygen and nutrients around the body. A strong, efficient cardiovascular system means you function better.

Cardiovascular benefits of Exercise Physiology:

1. Improve heart efficiency
   The heart, made up of cardiac muscle, is responsible for pumping blood around the body. Similarly to the other muscles in your body, regular exercise strengthens the heartmuscle, allowing it to pump blood more efficiently and with less effort. An exercise physiologist can tailor and monitor the intensity to ensure the exercise is appropriate and the heart gets stronger.
2. Lower blood pressure
   High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the blood pushing against your arteries, is pushing at a force that is consistently too high. is a major risk factor for heart disease. There are a number of causes, including genetics, poor diet, high stress, and lack of physical activity. Regular exercise has been shown to help lower both diastolic and systolic blood pressure, lowering the risk of heart disease. Consistent monitoring and ongoing exercise modification by an exercise physiologist, ensures the exercises remain safe and effective.
3. Improve cholesterol levels
   Cholesterol is made up of two types, HDL and LDL. HDL or high-density lipoprotein is known as “good cholesterol”, while LDL or low-density lipoprotein, is known as “bad cholesterol”. High cholesterol levels, particularly high levels of LDL, can cause a build-up of plaque in blood vessels, a process known as atherosclerosis. This build-up causes the blood vessels to narrow and harden, restricting blood flow and having the potential to form a blood clot if plaque breaks off. Regular exercise has been shown to help increase HDL and lower LDL. Thus, aiding efficient blood flow and decreasing the risk of cardiac
   events including heart attack or stroke.
4. Reduce inflammation
   Chronic inflammation, caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, environmental or lifestyle factors, can cause excess plaque to build up in blood vessels. This build-up makes it harder for blood carrying oxygen and nutrients to flow through the blood vessels. Regular exercise helps reduce systemic inflammation, decreasing the level of plaque build-up, facilitating a healthier and more efficient internal environment of the cardiovascular system.
5. Reduce the risk of cardiac disease
   Research has shown that participation in regular, structured exercise leads to lower risk of cardiac conditions, including heart attacks and strokes. For those with existing cardiac conditions, exercise physiology can play a preventative and rehabilitative role. Exercise physiologists create safe, personalised exercise programs designed specifically to reduce the likelihood of cardiac diseases or events.

Benefits of seeing an Exercise Physiologist:
Seeing an exercise physiologist takes the guess work out of exercise. Exercise physiologists are specifically trained in creating programs tailored to your unique needs and wants. They will take into account your health history, current fitness level, medications, and preferences when creating your program. This approach helps you know that what you’re doing is safe and effective, especially for individuals with cardiovascular concerns.

Conclusion:
If you have a cardiovascular condition or would just like to improve your cardiovascular health, there are a number of benefits exercise physiology can offer you. If you would like to know more about how Exercise Physiology services can help you manage Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, visit our website at https://urbanhealthhq.com.au or contact us by calling 0411563391 or email admin@urbanhealthhq.com.au