BS2014 Topic 8 – Exercise, Ageing & Disease Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards defining fundamental concepts of exercise physiology, ageing processes, and chronic disease management based on lecture notes.

Ageing

The progressive decline in physiological function over time.

Healthy ageing

Maintaining physical, mental and social wellbeing as people grow older.

Sarcopenia

The age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength and function.

Osteoporosis

A disease characterised by reduced bone mineral density and increased fracture risk.

Bone mineral density (BMD)

The amount of mineral present in a given area of bone.

Frailty

A clinical syndrome involving reduced physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors.

Physical activity

Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure.

Exercise

Planned, structured and repetitive physical activity performed to improve or maintain fitness.

Chronic disease

A long-term medical condition that usually develops slowly and persists over time.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

A group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels.

Hypertension

Persistently elevated arterial blood pressure.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)

A metabolic disorder characterised by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose.

Insulin resistance

A reduced responsiveness of body tissues to the effects of insulin.

Obesity

Excessive accumulation of body fat that increases the risk of disease.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measure of body size calculated as weight ($kg$) divided by height squared ($m^2$).

Aerobic capacity

The ability of the body to take in, transport and use oxygen during exercise.

$$VO_{2max}$$

The maximum rate of oxygen consumption during maximal exercise.

Functional capacity

The ability to perform everyday physical activities independently.

Falls risk

The likelihood of experiencing a fall due to reduced balance, strength or mobility.

Resistance training

Exercise involving external resistance to improve strength and muscle mass.

Weight-bearing exercise

Exercise performed while supporting body weight to stimulate bone health.

Exercise prescription

An individualised exercise programme based on frequency, intensity, time and type (FITT).

FITT principle

A framework for prescribing exercise based on Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type.