Explain what happens to blood lactate levels during aerobic training of increasing intensity. (5 marks)
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Sample Answer
- At rest, blood lactate levels remain low at approximately 1-2 mmol/L
- During light to moderate aerobic exercise, lactate production increases slightly but remains in equilibrium with clearance
- When exercise intensity increases to the aerobic threshold, lactate levels begin to rise gradually but remain manageable
- At the lactate threshold/inflection point, lactate production exceeds the body’s ability to clear it effectively
- Beyond this point, lactate accumulates rapidly, contributing to fatigue and limiting performance duration
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Sample Answer
- At rest, blood lactate levels remain low at approximately 1-2 mmol/L
- During light to moderate aerobic exercise, lactate production increases slightly but remains in equilibrium with clearance
- When exercise intensity increases to the aerobic threshold, lactate levels begin to rise gradually but remain manageable
- At the lactate threshold/inflection point, lactate production exceeds the body’s ability to clear it effectively
- Beyond this point, lactate accumulates rapidly, contributing to fatigue and limiting performance duration