Heart Power: The Engine That Never Stops

Your heart is a powerful muscle, like an engine in a car. 'Heart Power,' also called cardiorespiratory endurance, is how well your heart and lungs work together to send fuel (oxygen!) to your muscles when you move.When your heart is strong, it can pump more oxygen with every beat. This gives you more energy to run, jump, swim, and play without getting tired too quickly. A strong heart is a happy heart!

Mia loves playing tag at recess. Let's see how this builds her Heart Power:The Chase Begins: When Mia starts running, her muscles need more oxygen.Heart Speeds Up: Her brain tells her heart to beat faster. Thump-thump-thump! This pumps blood carrying oxygen to her legs.Lungs Help Out: She starts breathing faster and deeper to pull more oxygen into her body.Getting Stronger: The more Mia plays tag, the more efficient her heart and lungs become. Soon, she can run for longer before feeling out of breath. She's building her endurance!

Carlos is playing in a soccer game. His Heart Power is on full display!Dribbling Downfield: Jogging with the ball keeps his heart beating at a steady, elevated pace.Sprinting for a Goal: When he suddenly runs fast, his heart rate shoots up to deliver a burst of energy to his muscles. This is a great workout!A Quick Break: When the ball goes out of bounds, his heart rate slows down a bit, letting him recover.Teamwork: Just like his heart and lungs work as a team, Carlos works with his teammates. A strong heart helps him be a better team player because he has the energy to keep up with the game.