Introduction to Exercise Science - The Nervous System

A compilation of vocabulary terms and definitions related to the nervous system and motor control for exam preparation.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord, acting as integrative and control centers.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system outside the CNS, comprised of cranial and spinal nerves, which serves as communication lines between the CNS and the rest of the body.

Afferent

Sensory pathways that carry information towards the CNS from sensory receptors.

Efferent

Motor pathways that conduct impulses away from the CNS to effectors such as muscles and glands.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers released at the synapse that transmit signals from one neuron to another or to a muscle.

Action Potential

A rapid electrical signal that travels along the axon of a neuron, triggering the release of neurotransmitters.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway that controls reflex actions, involving an afferent pathway for sensory input and an efferent pathway for a motor response.

Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ)

The synapse or junction where a motor neuron and a muscle fiber communicate.

Motor Unit

A motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates, functioning together during contraction.

Somatic Nervous System

The division of the PNS responsible for voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The part of the PNS that controls involuntary functions, regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and digestive processes.

Sympathetic Division

The part of the autonomic nervous system that mobilizes body systems during activity or stress, often referred to as 'fight or flight'.

Parasympathetic Division

The part of the autonomic nervous system that conserves energy and promotes 'housekeeping' functions during rest.

Basic Neurophysiology

The study of the functions of neurons and how they communicate, including sensory input, integration, and motor output.

Sensor

A receptor that detects changes in the environment, such as sensory organs that gather information.

Control Center

The part of the nervous system that receives and integrates sensory information to initiate an appropriate response.

Effector

The muscle or gland that carries out the response dictated by the control center.

Muscle Spindles

Sensory receptors located in muscles that detect changes in muscle length (stretch).

Golgi Tendon Organs (GTO)

Proprioceptors located at the junctions of muscles and tendons that monitor tension and force in muscles.