HMS, BM EQ-Bank 185 MC

A gymnast performing a 90-second floor routine begins to experience muscular fatigue during their final tumbling pass. What is the MOST likely cause?

Accumulation of lactic acid
Depletion of ATP stores
Depletion of muscle glycogen
Insufficient oxygen availability

Show Answers Only

\(A\)

Show Worked Solution

A is correct: The glycolytic energy system produces lactic acid during high-intensity activity, which accumulates and interferes with muscle contraction efficiency

Other Options:

B is incorrect: ATP depletion occurs in very short efforts (<10 sec)
C is incorrect: Glycogen depletion occurs in longer endurance events
D is incorrect: While oxygen debt occurs, lactic acid is the main cause of fatigue at this duration