During physical activity, the body undergoes several changes to meet the increased demand for energy and to support the working muscles.
Increased heart rate: The heart rate increases to pump more blood to the working muscles and deliver oxygen and nutrients.
Increased breathing rate: The breathing rate increases to bring more oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of cellular respiration.
Vasodilation: Blood vessels in the working muscles dilate (widen) to allow more blood to flow to the area and provide oxygen and nutrients.
Increased muscle temperature: As the muscles work, they generate heat, which raises their temperature. This can help increase the efficiency of muscle contraction and speed up metabolic processes.
Increased production of energy: The body increases its production of energy through the breakdown of glucose and fatty acids to fuel the working muscles.
Increased sweating: As the body temperature rises, the body may sweat to cool down and prevent overheating.
Increased production of waste products: The breakdown of glucose and fatty acids produces waste products, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid. The body must remove these waste products to prevent muscle fatigue and damage.
Overall, these changes work together to increase the body's ability to perform physical activity and maintain homeostasis (balance) during exercise.