Comparative analysis of the effects of exercise on athletes and sedentary individuals among teachers and pupils: A case study of government secondary school, kenema, Sierra Leone

This study examines the impact of regular aerobic exercise on cardiovascular efficiency by comparing resting heart rate (HR) changes in sedentary individuals and athletes over a 12-week training period. Findings indicate a significant reduction in resting HR, with sedentary individuals experiencing a greater decline (19.3 BPM) than athletes (13.2 BPM). The results align with established exercise physiology principles, highlighting improved oxygen delivery, metabolic waste removal, and cardiac efficiency. Additionally, the study confirms the anticipatory rise in heart rate due to adrenaline release before exercise. These findings emphasize the importance of physical activity in reducing cardiovascular strain and lowering the risk of heart disease. The study recommends further research on exercise intensity variations to better understand long-term cardiovascular adaptations.