How does physical activity affect the lungs?

During exercise, the heart pumps harder and faster, working with the lungs to deliver oxygenated blood to the muscles. Breathing rate and depth increase as the lungs work to provide more oxygen to the blood pumping through. Exercisers' bodies grow better at loading, transporting and using oxygen. read more

A: Although exercise has no effect on lung capacity, exercise benefits the body's cardio-respiratory efficiency, according to Scientific American. During exercise, the heart pumps harder and faster, working with the lungs to deliver oxygenated blood to the muscles. read more

When your heart rate increases during aerobic exercise, your oxygen consumption increases: this provides the necessary energy to your muscles for the strenuous activity. Effects of Breathing Exercises. The practice of deep-breathing exercises may gradually increase your lung capacity. read more