Question Six:
a. Calculate and plot the RPP, TPR and Q data (at the bottom) in the accompanying excel file.
b. What does RPP represent and explain the physiological reasoning why RPP will change over the range of exercise intensities.
RPP is rate pressure product, which is the approximation of the hearts work at one given time, is calculated using the heart rate and systolic blood pressure. It depicts internal myocardial functioning within the body and allows values to be matched against those considered normal. Typically a resting value is around 8000 and can approach 35000 during high intensity exercise. The heart is necessary in providing blood to the body containing oxygen and nutrients and if this is not functioning to its full capacity…show more content… As shown in figure five, as the intensity of the individuals exercise increases, TPR decreases. There are two factors which impact on TPR, which include the Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), which is divided by the Cardiac Output (Q). The MAP is calculated from the systolic and diastolic pressures (Vos et al, 2013). This varies in individuals and its determination is important when determining total peripheral resistance it shows the result of vasodilation (the dilation of blood vessels to decrease blood pressure), which occurs during more intense exercise – to increase blood flow and release heat (Siddigui 2011). The relationship between TPR, cardiac output and MAP is highly affected by vasodilation and can impact on the result. The widening of these blood vessels due to the relaxation of smooth muscles allows the increased blood flow necessary to provide oxygen to the muscles faster during exercise (Siddigui 2011). Cardiac output (Q) increases along with this increase in blood flow; the heart rate fastens with exercise which all build to try and maintain the adequate oxygen levels. However, with the increase in Q being extremely affected by the decrease in MAP, the product of TR decreases over the exercise
