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Int J Sports Med 2001; 22(8): 558-565
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-18526
Physiology and Biochemistry
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

The Circulatory Response to Exercise: Role of the Peripheral Pump

T. W. Rowland
  • Department of Pediatrics, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA, USA
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Publication Date:
20 November 2001 (online)

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The circulation of blood during upright exercise involves a two-pump system, a central cardiac pump and a peripheral pump responsible for systemic venous return. Axiomatically, the function of the two pumps must be equal, and certain evidence suggests that the peripheral pump may “drive” the circulation during exercise. Despite its potential importance to circulatory reserve and aerobic fitness, little is known regarding the determinants of the peripheral pump. Pumping function of skeletal muscle and the suction effect of the left ventricle presumably are principal factors in defining systemic venous return. This review, which focuses on data in humans, examines current information regarding the peripheral pump and its potential role as a critical determinant of maximal cardiac output, maximal oxygen uptake, and endurance fitness.

Key words:

Cardiac output, exercise, physical fitness.

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T. W. Rowland, M. D.

Department of Pediatrics
Baystate Medical Center

Springfield, MA 01199
USA


Phone: +01(413) 794 7350

Fax: +01(413) 794 3623

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