Sports have become a part of my life, which I used to do regularly for four years. I train three times a week and skip workouts in case of illnesses. I am not a professional athlete, and I do not prepare for competitions. An action potential is a signal that travels through an axon or a muscle fiber and affects other neurons or leads to muscle contraction.
Neurons begin to transmit nerve impulses more actively; consequently, astrocytes respond to their needs by increasing the supply of nutrients. Astrocytes are cells of the nervous system that are not directly involved in transmitting a nerve impulse but are actively involved in delivering nutrients to neurons (Spielman, 2017). They control the balance of biochemical substances during signal transmission (Spielman, 2017). Under natural conditions, an action potential arises either under the influence of external stimuli or when neurotransmitters secreted by other neurons act on a neuron.
Any physical activity arouses the release of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. Regular exercise can help relieve stress, frustration, and chronic fatigue. Exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that reduce anxiety and induce a slight sense of joy (Spielman, 2017). The pleasant anticipation at the start of training is dopamine. It is conceived to reinforce activities that are important for survival with happiness; therefore, it encourages physical activity with a sense of satisfaction.
Moreover, another neurotransmitter – serotonin, is directly related to exercise. One of its functions is to regulate muscle activity; the brain sends impulses to motor neurons; they send signals to muscle cells (Spielman, 2017). Serotonin encourages delight to exercise regularly; after a long break, the stimulation decreases, and restart workouts become challenging (Spielman, 2017). Depression is associated with low serotonin levels, so exercise is recommended as a prevention against it. Concerning sensation and perception, regular exercise raises the pain threshold and reorganizes the brain structure, helping it fight stress and fatigue. People who are engaged in sports tend to consider themselves happier than those who prefer a sedentary lifestyle. Besides, exercise is a direct pathway to emotional stability, anxiety reduction, and cognitive flexibility.
References
Spielman, R. M. (2017). Psychology: OpenStax. 12th Media Services.