Learn: Applied Anatomy and Physiology - Cardio-Respiratory System

Welcome!Today we'll explore the Cardio-Respiratory System, an essential part of Applied Anatomy and Physiology. We'll learn how the heart and lungs work together to deliver oxygen and remove waste products, helping your body perform at its best during physical activity.

What is the Cardio-Respiratory System?The cardio-respiratory system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Its main role is to transport oxygen to the muscles and remove carbon dioxide from the body during exercise. Understanding how this system adapts to activity is key to improving physical performance.

Heart RateHeart rate refers to the number of times your heart beats per minute. During exercise, it increases to pump more oxygen-rich blood to working muscles. Regular training can lower your resting heart rate due to improved heart efficiency.

Stroke VolumeStroke volume is the amount of blood pumped out of the heart with each beat. It increases during exercise as your heart works harder to supply oxygen to your muscles. Training can improve stroke volume, allowing your heart to pump more efficiently.

Cardiac OutputCardiac output is the total volume of blood the heart pumps per minute. It is calculated by multiplying heart rate by stroke volume. During exercise, it increases significantly to meet the demands of the body.

Vascular ShuntingVascular shunting is the process where blood flow is redirected to the working muscles during exercise. Blood vessels dilate (widen) to increase the flow to areas that need oxygen while constricting (narrowing) in areas that are less active.

Oxygen TransportOxygen is transported in the blood by binding to haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. During exercise, the demand for oxygen increases, so the heart pumps faster, delivering oxygen more efficiently to working muscles.

DiffusionDiffusion is the movement of gases from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. In the lungs, oxygen moves into the blood while carbon dioxide moves out. This process ensures the muscles receive oxygen during exercise.

Adaptations to ExerciseRegular exercise can improve the efficiency of your cardio-respiratory system. For example, it can increase your VO2 max (maximum oxygen uptake), delay fatigue, and raise your lactate threshold, allowing you to exercise for longer at higher intensities.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the cardio-respiratory system and how it adapts to exercise. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.

Congratulations!You've completed the lesson on the Cardio-Respiratory System. Understanding how your heart and lungs work is crucial to improving physical performance. Keep exploring and stay curious!