Nutrition and food tests (CCEA)The effects of exercise

Food provides energy and nutrients. The different components of our diet have different sources and functions.

Part ofCombined ScienceLiving processes

The effects of exercise

Exercise causes an increase in pulse rate (heart rate).

When exercising our muscles contract more often and require more energy.

Energy is made during the process of .

As more glucose and oxygen is needed, cardiac output (blood pumped per minute) and blood flow to the muscles increases.

This causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Regular exercise is beneficial as it strengthens the heart muscle, leading to an increased cardiac output even when at rest.

Two joggers running in a park

It also reduces the recovery rate (time taken for heart rate to return to normal after exercise).