Systemic Approach Towards Understanding Exercise Tolerance: The Case for a Mathematical Model Application Abordagem Sistémica da Tolerância ao Exercício: Um Caso para a Modelação Matemática

Abstract

To prescribe exercise, one must anticipate each individual’s exercise tolerance. The errors and imprecisions associated with the determining of the prescribed intensity, as well as the complexity of the physiological response, compromise the application of generic guidance.

Mathematical modelling is a tool for predicting the physiological response to exercise and can, therefore, be useful for prescribing exercise.

The mathematical model adapted and developed by the authors is presented and explained in the article. Also referred are the perspectives towards the application of these theoretical investigation methodologies, either in the exercise physiology domain, as in the populations’ health. As a conclusion, it is timely that the creation of a research nucleus in Sports Medicine includes mathematical modelling in systems dynamics.