Question

Explain the effects of exercise on muscular system.

Answer 1

1. Muscular hypertrophy: Regular training enlarges muscle fibres. Their diameter and length, and the amounts of muscle protein, glycogen, and enzymes, increase.
2. Aerobic changes: Training increases myoglobin, supporting oxygen supply to working muscles. Muscles improve their ability to produce energy by oxidising glycogen and use more fat as an energy source.
3. Anaerobic changes: Muscles become better able to function when oxygen supply is insufficient. These adaptations include greater lactic-acid tolerance and changes in muscle blood flow and fibre characteristics.
4. Greater capillary supply: Endurance training increases capillary density and the capillary-to-fibre ratio, improving blood supply to the muscles.
5. Improved performance: Muscles become stronger and contract with less effort at a given force. Strength, flexibility, and endurance improve; lactic-acid accumulation is delayed, helping activity continue for longer.