Exercise is Medicine (EIM) Level 1 Practice Exam

The relationship between acute and habitual physical activity and their impact on sudden adverse cardiac events is grounded in the understanding that regular physical activity is protective for cardiovascular health. Active individuals engage in regular exercise, which promotes overall heart health, improves cardiovascular fitness, and reduces the likelihood of heart issues, including sudden cardiac events.

Habitual activity leads to physiological adaptations in the cardiovascular system, such as improved heart function, better blood vessel health, and enhanced metabolic efficiency. These changes decrease the risk of heart-related events even when an individual engages in acute physical activity. As a result, people who are routinely active have a lower risk of experiencing adverse events compared to those who are sedentary, especially during periods of high physical exertion.

The other options reflect misunderstandings about the relationship between acute and habitual activity. Some might suggest that acute activity increases risk, but this is generally offset by the benefits of being regularly physically active. The idea that habitual activity has no effect on acute activity risks does not recognize the protective nature of regular exercise. Lastly, considering the two types of activity as independent ignores the significant way habitual activity influences acute physical responses and overall cardiovascular health.