The cross-sectional views of a vessel displaying natural mechanisms to keep clotting in check. The formation of an initial clot occurs when fibrin and platelets ensnare red blood cells. Yet, engagement in physical exercise can reduce risks associated with risks through 3 mechanisms. The 1st mechanism is physical exercise increases the production of nitric oxide, a strong vasodilator that expands the arteries and increases blood flow. The 2nd mechanism shows increased nitric oxide from physical exercise can also prevent platelet aggregation and activation, reducing overall risk of clotting. Lastly, physical exercise engagement increases the activity of plasmin, the main layer in fibrinolysis, that breaks down the fibrin web and therefore eliminating established clots.
