What effect does training have on resting heart rate?

Training, especially through aerobic exercise, typically lowers resting heart rate. This occurs due to several physiological adaptations that take place in response to regular training. One of the primary adaptations is an increase in cardiac efficiency. With consistent training, the heart becomes stronger and more effective at pumping blood, allowing it to deliver the same amount of oxygenated blood with fewer beats. As a result, individuals who are regularly active often see a significant reduction in their resting heart rate compared to those who are sedentary.

Additionally, improved autonomic regulation, particularly an increase in parasympathetic tone and a decrease in sympathetic tone, contributes to this reduction. The parasympathetic nervous system promotes a state of rest and recovery, further allowing for a lower heart rate when at rest. Therefore, a lower resting heart rate is a common indicator of improved cardiovascular fitness and a well-conditioned heart.