Considering the known effects of long-term physical activity on the body's primary stress-response pathways, compare the likely physiological reaction of Alex to that of Ben. Specifically, how would you expect their hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responses to differ, and why?

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Prolonged physical exercise may lead to a reduced physiological reaction to stressors. For example, a study involving rats that exercised for six weeks found that their hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a key part of the stress response system, became less responsive to mild stressors.

Exercise and Reduced HPA Axis Responsiveness

An individual who has engaged in a consistent aerobic exercise program for several months is suddenly faced with a mild psychological stressor. Compared to a sedentary individual facing the same stressor, what is the most probable physiological reaction in the person who exercises regularly?

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