Physiology of Cardiac Output and Muscle Fiber Types

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cardiac output, stroke volume, muscle fiber types, and the physiological changes that occur due to different types of exercise.

Stroke Volume (SV)

The amount of blood pumped out of the heart during each contraction.

Cardiac Output (CO)

The amount of blood the heart pumps in one minute, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate.

Resting Heart Rate

The number of heartbeats per minute while at rest, typically lower in trained athletes.

Aerobic Exercise

Physical activity that relies on oxygen to produce energy, involving oxidative muscle fibers.

Anaerobic Exercise

Physical activity that does not require oxygen but relies on stored energy, primarily involving glycolytic muscle fibers.

Fast Glycolytic Fibers

Skeletal muscle fibers that contract quickly, rely on anaerobic metabolism, and fatigue easily.

Slow Oxidative Fibers

Skeletal muscle fibers that contract slowly, utilize aerobic respiration, and are more resistant to fatigue.

Mitochondrial Density

The number of mitochondria in muscle fibers, which increases with aerobic training for improved ATP production.

Vagal Tone

The activity of the vagus nerve that controls the heart rate; increased vagal tone is related to lower resting heart rates in athletes.

Exercise Stress Test

A test that monitors heart rate and cardiac output during physical exertion to assess cardiovascular health.

Calcium Ions (Ca++) in Muscle Contraction

Essential for initiating and regulating muscle contractions; consistent calcium release is necessary for smooth muscle movement.