Question

The physical therapist is evaluating a male client who has increased his muscle mass by exercising. The therapist understands this physiologic process is known as which of the following?

Answer 1

Muscle hypertrophy is the physiologic process where a person increases their muscle mass through exercise. Resistance training or strength training exercises, such as weightlifting, can lead to muscle hypertrophy through muscle protein synthesis. Bodyweight exercises, like push-ups and squats, can also stimulate muscle growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The physiologic process where a person increases their muscle mass through exercise is called muscle hypertrophy. Muscle hypertrophy occurs when the muscle fibers undergo an increase in size due to an increase in their individual protein content. This process is typically driven by resistance training or strength training exercises, where the muscle is repeatedly stressed and overloaded.

One example of an exercise that can lead to muscle hypertrophy is weightlifting. When a person performs weightlifting exercises, they apply a certain force and torque to the muscles, causing microscopic damage to the muscle fibers. To repair and adapt to this damage, the body initiates a process called muscle protein synthesis, which results in the growth of muscle fibers and an increase in muscle mass.

Another example of an exercise that can lead to muscle hypertrophy is bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups and squats. These exercises involve using the body's own weight as resistance, which can stimulate muscle growth when performed with proper intensity and progression.