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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
07:26
Conducting Maximal and Submaximal Endurance Exercise Testing to Measure Physiological and Biological Responses to Acute Exercise in Humans
Published on: October 17, 2018
Physical exercise and health: a review
1Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria. bappakano@yahoo.com
Summary
Regular physical activity enhances exercise capacity and fitness, leading to significant health benefits. Engaging in exercise lowers mortality rates and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving various health markers.
Area of Science:
- Exercise physiology
- Preventive medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Physical activity improves exercise capacity and fitness, potentially reducing all-cause mortality.
- Active individuals exhibit lower chronic disease rates, including coronary artery disease (CAD).
- Benefits may stem from improved cardiovascular risk factors, fibrinolysis, endothelial function, and autonomic tone.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on the health benefits of physical activity.
- To highlight the advantages of regular engagement in physical exercise.
- To emphasize the role of physical activity in disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review utilizing MEDLINE/PUBMED and bibliographic searches.
- Focused on English language studies concerning physical activity and health outcomes.
- Synthesized evidence on the physiological and health impacts of exercise.
Main Results:
- Physical inactivity is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- Regular exercise increases exercise capacity, reduces myocardial oxygen demand, and lowers mortality rates.
- Physical activity mitigates cardiovascular risk by improving blood pressure, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles, and endothelial function.
Conclusions:
- Accumulating evidence supports the numerous health benefits of physical exercise.
- Healthcare professionals should integrate physical activity counseling into patient care.
- Health policy and community initiatives are crucial for promoting physical activity.
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