How the systems of your body work together

How the body works
The human body is made up of different body systems, each with its own unique and very specific function. All these systems work together and support each other to sustain a healthy body.

These systems include:

• The musculoskeletal system. The skeleton provides the framework for the muscles. The muscles enable the skeleton – and thus the body – to move. The musculosketal system consists of bones, joints and muscles. Muscles are attached to bones by tendons (which act like the cables of a suspension bridge).
• The digestive system. The food (quantity and type) we eat can either contribute to a healthier or unhealthier body. Nutrition is of great importance.
• The cardiovascular system – the heart and blood vessels. Regular exercise can counteract or slow down artherosclerosis, and reduce your risk for heart disease and deep vein thrombosis.
• The nervous system. Exercise can strengthen the muscles and can also help to improve reaction times, and therefore performance.

Your body is more than a bunch of muscles. All systems need to function. Most exercise experts will advise a holistic approach instead of a fragmented approach to exercise – train the whole body, not only one group of muscles. And if you want to focus on a specific area of the body (such as abs, legs or back), add additional muscle-specific exercises to your routine.