What happens to a persons resting heart rate when doing cardiorespratory exercise and conditioning?

Regular cardiorespiratory exercise and conditioning can lead to several adaptations in a person's resting heart rate (RHR). Here's what typically happens:

1. Decreased RHR:

- With consistent aerobic exercise, the heart becomes stronger and more efficient at pumping blood. This improved cardiac function allows the heart to maintain an adequate cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute) at a lower heart rate. As a result, the resting heart rate tends to decrease.

2. Improved Heart Rate Recovery:

- After exercise, the heart rate normally returns to its baseline or resting rate. Regular cardiorespiratory conditioning can enhance heart rate recovery, meaning the heart rate returns to the resting state more quickly after exercise. This indicates improved cardiovascular fitness.

3. Increased Stroke Volume:

- Exercise training can increase the heart's stroke volume, which refers to the amount of blood pumped out by the heart with each contraction. A larger stroke volume means the heart can pump the same amount of blood with fewer contractions, resulting in a lower resting heart rate.

4. Enhanced Parasympathetic Activity:

- Cardiorespiratory exercise and conditioning can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for "rest and digest" functions. Increased parasympathetic activity can slow down the heart rate, contributing to a lower resting heart rate.

5. Reduced Blood Pressure:

- Regular exercise often leads to lower blood pressure, which can also influence resting heart rate. When blood pressure is well-controlled, the heart doesn't have to work as hard to pump blood against high resistance, resulting in a lower resting heart rate.

Individual Variation:

- The specific changes in resting heart rate may vary from person to person. Factors such as age, genetics, fitness level, and overall health can influence individual responses to exercise training.

Optimal RHR:

- While a lower resting heart rate is often associated with improved cardiovascular fitness, it's important to note that the optimal RHR can vary based on individual circumstances. Some athletes, particularly endurance athletes, may have naturally low resting heart rates. Consulting a healthcare professional or a qualified exercise specialist can help determine a healthy target RHR for each individual.

In conclusion, regular cardiorespiratory exercise and conditioning can lead to a decreased resting heart rate, improved heart rate recovery, increased stroke volume, enhanced parasympathetic activity, and lower blood pressure. These adaptations reflect improved cardiovascular fitness and overall heart health.