Page 24 - PESY Vol 7 No 4

PESY: Print ISSN 2231-1394, Online ISSN 2278-795X Vol. 7 No 4

NEUROMUSCULAR ADAPTATIONS TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

S. Malar, (UGC-NET-JRF), Research Scholar (Full time), Department of Physical
Education and Health sciences, Alagappa University, Karaikudi
Dr. D. Maniazhagu, Research Supervisor& Assistant Professor, Department of Physical
Education and Health sciences, Alagappa University, Karaikudi

INTRODUCTION
Physical activity has a major impact on health. Some effects are well established; as a
major component of energy expenditure, physical activity has a great influence on energy
balance and body composition. It is also recognised that physical activity is a major
independent modifiable risk factor which has a protective effect on cardiovascular disease
(CVD), stroke, type 2 diabetes, colon and breast cancers, and is also associated with other
important health outcomes such as mental health, injuries and falls. Physical inactivity
remains a public health problem in many areas of the world (L. Miles, 2007). Through
physical activity, people learn to move, learn about them and about physical activity.
Exercise is a subcategory of physical activity and can be defined as planned, structured and
repetitive physical activity.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Physical activity is defined as ‘bodily movement that is produced by the contraction
of skeletal muscle and that substantially increases energy expenditure. (US Department of
Health and Human Services 1996)
Regular physical activity helps improve health in people of all ages. Aim to do at least
30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week.
Physical activity means exercise such as:
• Walking
• Gardening
• Playing Sports
• Walking Up Stairs
• Water Aerobics
• Dancing

NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the site of communication between motor nerve
axons and muscle fibres. It is composed of four specialised cell types: motor neurons,
Schwann cells, muscle fibres and the recently discovered kranocytes. The function of the
NMJ is to transmit signals from the motor neuron to the skeletal muscle fibre quickly and
reliably, to ensure precise control of skeletal muscle contraction and therefore voluntary
movement. (Hong, 2011)

NEUROMUSCULAR ADAPTATIONS
Due to the effect of physical activity following neuromuscular adaptations takes
place.
 As skeletal muscles become larger, stronger and more efficient.
 Connective tendons adapt to meet increased demands.
 Muscles increase their ability to store glycogen and Myoglobin
 Muscles increase their oxidative capacity.
 Achieved by increase in number of mitochondria in muscle cells.

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