Sports, Exercise and Health Science · A.2 Hydration and nutrition

SEA.2.3 — Energy systems

Sports, Exercise and Health Science · SL / HL · syllabus-mapped notes

1. SEA.2.3.1

   The three energy systems

   The body relies on the phosphagen, glycolytic and oxidative systems for energy production to sustain life and physical activity.

2. SEA.2.3.1.1

   Fuels, recovery, benefits and limits

   The energy systems have different fuel sources for ATP production, recovery capabilities, benefits and limitations during physical activity.

3. SEA.2.3.1.2

   The energy continuum

   The energy continuum aids in describing the relative contribution of each energy system depending on the nature of the activity.

4. SEA.2.3.1.3

   Rest and submaximal intensity

   While at rest, and during extended periods of submaximal intensity, the oxidative system is the dominant supplier of ATP to support the body’s activities.

5. SEA.2.3.1.4

   Short and high-intensity periods

   During both short- and high-intensity periods, and sudden increases of intensity, anaerobic ATP production (phosphagen and anaerobic glycolysis) supports the body’s functions.

6. SEA.2.3.2

   VO2 max

   Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) is influenced by an individual’s age, sex differences, body composition, lifestyle factors and level of fitness.

7. SEA.2.3.2.1

   VO2 max and running economy

   Endurance performance is affected by VO2 max and efficiency of movement, e.g. running economy.

8. SEA.2.3.3

   The lactate inflection point

   The lactate inflection point is the maximum intensity at which the body can metabolize lactate at the same rate as its production.

9. SEA.2.3.4

   EPOC

   Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) is required for the body to return to homeostasis and is dependent on the oxygen deficit incurred during exercise. EPOC is typically divided into two subsections: fast and slow.