Final answer:
Heavy endurance training in children can improve maximal aerobic power and enhance cardiovascular and muscular health when done correctly, rather than causing cardiovascular failure or permanent damage. It's important for children to have proper training and rest to avoid potential negative effects of over-exercise.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the effects of heavy endurance training in children. For children, heavy endurance training, when undertaken with proper techniques, has been shown to improve maximal aerobic power comparable to adults. This type of physical training includes aerobic exercises like cycling, running, and walking, which enhance cardiovascular health and muscular endurance. Unlike resistance training, which primarily causes hypertrophy, aerobic exercises can enhance the efficiency of slow-twitch muscle fibers by increasing the number of mitochondria and myoglobin content, improving oxygen utilization during extended periods of exercise. This leads to increased endurance and a stronger cardiovascular system. Because aerobic exercises require a sustainable level of exertion and involve the heart working more efficiently, they generally also lower the risk of many diseases, rather than increasing the risk of cardiovascular failures or causing permanent musculoskeletal damage.
It is crucial to note that while regular physical activity can significantly boost health, too much exercise or improper training can be detrimental. Excessive, intense exercise without adequate rest may lead to muscle and joint injuries, or even cardiovascular issues in extreme cases. Ensuring that children follow a well-designed training program and get proper rest and recovery is integral to reaping the benefits of endurance exercise without negative impacts on health. With a balanced approach to endurance training, children can see improvements in their aerobic capacity and overall fitness without increasing the risk of pulmonary diseases or experiencing permanent damage.