Understanding Heart Rate Regulation: Sympathetic & Parasympathetic Systems

The heart rate is regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which is a division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions. The autonomic nervous system has two branches: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.

* The sympathetic nervous system increases the heart rate and blood pressure, and prepares the body for physical activity.

* The parasympathetic nervous system decreases the heart rate and blood pressure, and promotes rest and digestion.

The heart rate is also influenced by other factors, such as age, gender, fitness level, and medications.