Biology 105
Biology of Exercise
Spring 2003
Scenario:
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, some physicians believed
that exercise is detrimental to overall health and advised people against
participating in athletics. There was evidence that apparently supports this
position:
- Exercise clearly is very stressful to the human body.
- Athletes sometimes suddenly die during exercise.
- On autopsy, many athletes have enlarged hearts.
So, in the early 1900s, it was certainly reasonable for physicians to conclude
that exercise causes swelling and inflammation of the heart, and therefore to
conclude that exercise is detrimental. Clearly, the position of the medical profession
towards exercise has changed since the early 1900s. We are now encouraged, even
exhorted, to exercise regularly.
Assignment:
How do you think this change in perspective has come about? Brainstorm
factors, processes, events, results, or anything else that you think may have
contributed to the change in perspective.
