When you start a new exercise routine, your body undergoes various changes to adapt to the increased physical demands.
These changes can lead to improved fitness and health, but they also play a role in how our bodies adapt to exercise over time.
In this blog post, we'll explore the top five ways that our bodies adapt to exercise.
1. Increased Strength and Muscle Size
One of the most noticeable changes that occur in our bodies when we start exercising is an increase in strength and muscle size. When we lift weights or perform bodyweight exercises, we create tiny tears in our muscle fibres.
Over time, these tears repair and rebuild, leading to stronger and larger muscles.
2. Improved Cardiovascular Function
Cardiovascular exercise, such as running or cycling, can lead to improved cardiovascular function. Over time, our bodies become more efficient at delivering oxygen and nutrients to our muscles, allowing us to exercise for longer periods without getting tired.
This improved function is due to adaptations in our heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
3. Improved Bone Density
Weight-bearing exercises, such as running or weightlifting, can lead to improved bone density. Our bones respond to the stress placed upon them by increasing their density, making them stronger and less susceptible to fractures.
This is particularly important as we age, as bone density naturally declines.
4. Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion
Stretching and flexibility exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, can lead to improved flexibility and range of motion.
These exercises can help to lengthen and stretch our muscles, which can improve our posture and decrease the risk of injury.
5. Improved Energy Levels
Regular exercise can lead to improved energy levels. This is due to a variety of factors, including increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to our muscles, improved cardiovascular function, and the release of endorphins.
Endorphins are chemicals in our brain that make us feel good and can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Summing up, our bodies undergo various changes to adapt to exercise. These changes include increased strength and muscle size, improved cardiovascular function, improved bone density, improved flexibility and range of motion, and improved energy levels. By understanding how our bodies adapt to exercise, we can create effective workout plans that take advantage of these adaptations to improve our overall health and fitness.