Final answer:
Physical exercise's benefits for health, especially cardiovascular health, include reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving heart and muscle function, and regulating stress hormones. Contracting muscles release myokines, which repair tissues and have anti-inflammatory effects, while exercise also improves heart efficiency and overall fitness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question makes reference to the benefits of proper physical exercise on health, particularly in relation to the cardiovascular system. Regular exercise contributes to overall health in numerous ways. It helps elevate the heart rate, direct blood flow to muscles, improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness, increase bone density, enhance cognitive function, aid in weight management, and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
Exercise induces the release of hormones called myokines from contracting skeletal muscles, which have a role in tissue repair and growth, and possess anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, physical activity is known to reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone linked to a plethora of health issues when persistently high.
Cardiovascular benefits include a reduction in risk factors such as hypertension, high 'bad' cholesterol (LDL), and total cholesterol, while increasing 'good' cholesterol (HDL) levels and insulin sensitivity. The mechanical efficiency of the heart is also improved, allowing for greater exercise tolerance and reduced risk of fatigue during physical activity.