Respiration During Exercise
Science: KS3, topic 1.6.18
Respiration During Exercise
Exercise increases the body's energy demands. The rate of respiration must increase in order to meet these new demands. The main responses to increase the rate of respiration are:
Increased heart rate
- An increase in heart rate delivers more blood (containing glucose and oxygen) to the muscles.
Increase in breathing rate
- An increase in breathing rate increases gas exchange in the lungs, with more oxygen taken in and more carbon dioxide released.
Increase in breath volume
- An increase in breath volume also increases the rate of gas exchange.
Blood vessels dilate
- Blood vessels dilate (open wider) to ensure more blood reaches the muscles.
Test yourself on Respiration During Exercise
How does the body respond to increased energy demands during exercise?
During exercise, a person's muscles need more blood carrying oxygen and glucose, delivered faster than at rest. What change in heart rate causes this?