Discuss how the cardiovascular system adapts to long term aerobic exercise.

In response to aerobic exercise (longer durations at a lower intensity using oxygen), the cardiovascular (CV) system adapts over time to become more efficient. Adaptions include cardiac hypotrophy where the size and strength of the heart increases which increases stroke volume, decreases resting heart rate and increases maximum cardiac output. A reduction of blood pressure can also be seen due to an increase in elasticity in the walls of the veins and arteries. Capillarisation (an increase in the number of capillaries) occurs around the lungs and muscles and there is an increase in the number of red blood cells which leads to better oxygen transport. These adaptions occur after long term aerobic training and lead to both improved performance and improved health.