The physiological process wherein the body adjusts its underlying structure and function in response to repeated, controlled stressors imposed by physical exercise, leading to improved performance capacity. This adaptation is heavily mediated by the neuroendocrine system to manage the required energy expenditure and repair demands. Successful adaptation requires a precise balance between stimulus and recovery.
Origin
This concept is central to sports science and exercise physiology, describing how the body becomes stronger or more resilient over time due to training stimulus. Adaptation signifies the beneficial, long-term change.
Mechanism
The mechanism involves the initial stress causing transient endocrine fluctuations (e.g., transient cortisol rise, acute growth hormone pulse), followed by a recovery phase where anabolic hormones drive repair and overcompensation. Hormonal sensitivity at the muscle fiber level dictates how effectively the training load translates into structural gains like mitochondrial biogenesis or myofibrillar protein accretion. Poor adaptation often signals an inadequate recovery period or chronic HPA axis strain.
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