What is a long-term effect of regular exercise on heart rate?

A long-term effect of regular exercise on heart rate is a decreased resting heart rate. When an individual engages in regular cardiovascular exercise, the heart becomes stronger and more efficient. This increased efficiency allows the heart to pump more blood per beat, meaning it does not need to beat as frequently when at rest to maintain a steady supply of oxygenated blood to the body.

Over time, as a result of consistent aerobic activity, the resting heart rate can significantly lower—often seen as a positive indicator of cardiovascular fitness. Generally, endurance athletes may exhibit resting heart rates that are considerably lower than those of sedentary individuals due to this adaptation.

In contrast, an increased resting heart rate would indicate a less efficient cardiovascular system, and an irregular heart rhythm or higher maximum heart rate are not typical long-term adaptations associated with regular exercise. Instead, the adaptations focus on improved heart function and efficiency, reflecting in the decrease of resting heart rate.