Endocrine System Adaptations

Whenever we get that "hormonal" feeling during the month, we can thank our endocrine system. The endocrine system consists of glands and organs that secrete hormones into the blood to arrive at a target cell. Hormones are signaling messengers that give information regarding the body's current status and signal an action. They control and keep in balance numerous physiological processes in our bodies, like stress responses, reproduction, growth and development, and metabolism. The primary responsibility of the endocrine system is to regulate hormone levels and keep the body in homeostasis (balance). Because the nervous system is also intricately involved in homeostasis and endocrine function, many scientists refer to the two systems as the neuroendocrine system.

When you add exercise to your daily routine, your hormones have to adjust to keep your body in homeostasis. Hormones control your body both acutely (during the exercise session) and chronically (long after the actual exercise session is over). They regulate your body fluids, help your body adapt to the stress of exercise, and influence skeletal muscle.

Fluid Regulation

Exercise As a Stressor

Anabolic Hormones and Muscle