Investigation of the effect of physical activity on pulse rate

 

Abstract

This experiment aims to explore the relationship between physical activity and pulse rate. The pulse rates of participants were measured at rest and after performing various physical activities. The results indicate a significant increase in pulse rate following physical exertion, suggesting a direct correlation between activity level and pulse rate.

Introduction

Physical activity has long been recognized as a factor influencing heart rate. The purpose of this experiment is to investigate this relationship in detail. The pulse rate, measured in beats per minute (bpm), reflects the heart's activity and provides insights into cardiovascular health. By measuring pulse rate at rest and after physical activity, we can assess how exercise affects heart rate.

Hypothesis

We hypothesize that engaging in physical activity will result in an elevated pulse rate compared to resting conditions. This is based on the understanding that exercise increases the demand for oxygen and energy, leading to accelerated heart rate to meet these demands.

Experiment Details

Materials

• Stopwatch
• Pulse rate monitor
• Exercise equipment (e.g., treadmill, stationary bike)

Participants

Ten healthy individuals aged between 20 and 30 participated in the experiment. Participants were briefed on the procedure and potential risks involved.

Procedure

1. Resting Pulse Rate Measurement:
   1. Participants rested quietly for 10 minutes.
   2. Pulse rate was measured using the pulse rate monitor and recorded.
2. Physical Activity Protocol:
   1. Participants engaged in three different physical activities: walking, jogging, and cycling.
   2. Each activity was performed for 5 minutes at a moderate intensity.
   3. Pulse rate was measured immediately after each activity and recorded.

Observations and Calculations

Resting Pulse Rate

Resting pulse rate (RPR) of participants was measured after 10 minutes of rest:

\[ RPR = \frac{{\sum Pulse\,Rates\,at\,Rest}}{Number\,of\,Participants} \]

Pulse Rate after Physical Activity

The pulse rate after each physical activity was recorded:

\[ Average\,Pulse\,Rate\,after\,Activity = \frac{{\sum Pulse\,Rates\,after\,Activity}}{Number\,of\,Participants} \]

Conclusion

The results of the experiment support the hypothesis that physical activity leads to an increase in pulse rate. Walking, jogging, and cycling all resulted in elevated pulse rates compared to resting conditions. This indicates that the heart works harder during exercise to meet the body's increased demand for oxygen and energy. Understanding the relationship between physical activity and pulse rate is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health and designing effective exercise regimens.

Precautions

• Ensure participants are in good health and free from any cardiovascular conditions.
• Monitor participants closely during physical activity to prevent overexertion.
• Use calibrated equipment for accurate pulse rate measurements.
• Allow participants to rest between activities to avoid fatigue.

Short Questions with Answers

1. What is pulse rate?

Answer: Pulse rate is the number of times the heart beats per minute, indicating its activity.

2. How does physical activity affect pulse rate?

Answer: Physical activity increases pulse rate as the heart works harder to supply oxygen and nutrients to muscles.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What is the purpose of measuring pulse rate in this experiment?
• A) To assess respiratory health
• B) To evaluate cardiovascular response to physical activity
• C) To determine muscle strength
• D) To measure body temperature
2. What is the formula to calculate resting pulse rate (RPR)?
• A) \( RPR = \frac{{\sum Pulse\,Rates\,at\,Rest}}{Number\,of\,Participants} \)
• B) \( RPR = \frac{{Number\,of\,Participants}}{{\sum Pulse\,Rates\,at\,Rest}} \)
• C) \( RPR = \frac{{Pulse\,Rates\,at\,Rest}}{{Number\,of\,Participants}} \)
• D) \( RPR = Number\,of\,Participants \times Pulse\,Rates\,at\,Rest \)