GLOSSARY

Fast neural and hormonal control

Sympathetic neural activity and adrenal medullary secretion coordinate cardiovascular adjustment and fuel mobilization. Receptor subtype and tissue distribution determine whether the response involves contraction, relaxation, secretion or metabolism. Circulating catecholamines and nerve-terminal release are not identical measurements.

Specific considerations

Regional receptor distribution and neural versus circulating delivery determine the integrated cardiovascular effect.

A dynamic exercise response

Intensity, duration, posture, emotional arousal and sampling conditions influence catecholamine measurements. Increased fuel mobilization does not automatically mean greater long-term fat loss. A transient physiological response should be separated from pathological catecholamine excess.