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HMS, TIP EQ-Bank 336 MC

Why might athletes gain weight during the tapering period before major competitions?

  1. Increased caloric intake from reduced energy expenditure during lighter training sessions
  2. Enhanced muscle protein synthesis from higher intensity training maintaining strength levels
  3. Greater glycogen and water storage in muscles due to reduced training volume
  4. Hormonal changes associated with pre-competition stress and anxiety responses
Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution
  • C is correct: Athletes might gain some weight during tapering because their muscles will store more glycogen and water due to reduced training demands.

Other options:

  • A is incorrect: Weight gain is from glycogen/water storage rather than increased caloric intake exceeding expenditure.
  • B is incorrect: While protein synthesis may occur, the weight gain is specifically from glycogen and water storage.
  • D is incorrect: The weight gain is a physiological adaptation to reduced training, not from stress-related hormonal changes.