The heart is a muscular organ that continuously pumps blood throughout your body. It's a vital part of your circulatory system, working tirelessly to deliver oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products.
The Heart's Four Chambers: A Coordinated Effort
The heart comprises four chambers: two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers). These chambers work together in a coordinated sequence:
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Receiving Blood: The right atrium receives oxygen-poor blood from the body, while the left atrium receives oxygen-rich blood from the lungs. (Source: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia)
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Pumping Blood: The atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles. The ventricles then contract powerfully, pumping blood out of the heart. The right ventricle sends oxygen-poor blood to the lungs to be re-oxygenated, while the left ventricle pumps oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. (Source: Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin)
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Continuous Cycle: This entire process of receiving and pumping blood is a continuous cycle, repeating approximately 100,000 times each day to circulate about 5 liters of blood. (Source: British Heart Foundation)
The Heart: A Powerful Muscle
The heart itself is made up of muscle and tissue. Its rhythmic contractions are driven by electrical signals that originate within the heart itself. These signals ensure the coordinated contraction of the atria and ventricles. (Source: Cleveland Clinic) The heart's ability to pump blood effectively depends on several factors, including factors like preload and afterload, which can be studied using isolated working heart systems. (Source: ADInstruments)
Monitoring Heart Rate
Monitoring your heart rate during exercise helps determine your exercise intensity and ensures you're working within a safe range. Using fitness trackers or calculating your target heart rate zone provides a way to stay within the optimal training range. (Source: American Heart Association, Source: University of Iowa Health Care)