ACSM Health Fitness Specialist Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

Ischemia refers to the inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle, which leads to a lack of essential oxygen needed for the functioning of the cardiac tissues. When ischemia occurs, it can result in muscle damage because the heart muscle cells begin to suffer from oxygen deprivation. Without sufficient oxygen, these cells cannot perform their normal functions, and prolonged ischemia can lead to cell death and permanent damage, commonly manifesting as angina (chest pain) or myocardial infarction (heart attack).

The other options do not align with the consequences of ischemia. Increased oxygen supply would indicate a resolution of ischemia, not a result of it. Similarly, a reduction in heart rate may occur due to various factors, but it is not a direct result of ischemia. Improved cardiac output is also not feasible during ischemic conditions, as the reduced oxygen and subsequent muscle damage would impair heart function rather than enhance it. Hence, muscle damage is the clear typical outcome of ischemia in the heart muscle.