Prepare for the ACE Personal Trainer Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Get ready with flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam and kickstart your fitness career!

Practice this question and more.


What happens during vagal withdrawal?

  1. Heart rate decreases significantly

  2. Sympathetic nervous system is inhibited

  3. Heart rate increases

  4. Parasympathetic nerve fibers are activated

The correct answer is: Heart rate increases

During vagal withdrawal, there is an increase in heart rate. This physiological response occurs when the parasympathetic nervous system, which is primarily responsible for slowing down the heart rate via the vagus nerve, is inhibited or withdrawn. As a result, the influence of the sympathetic nervous system becomes more dominant, leading to an elevated heart rate. This can occur in various situations, such as during physical activity, stress, or other stimuli that demand increased cardiovascular output. In summary, vagal withdrawal contributes to an increase in heart rate as a result of decreased parasympathetic activity and heightened sympathetic dominance. This process is essential for preparing the body to respond to exertion or stress, making it a vital aspect of the body’s autonomic regulation.