During a summer time beach volleyball tournament, an athlete begins to experience fatigue during their third game of the day.
Identify TWO causes of fatigue and explain their impact on performance. (3 marks)
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Sample Answer – Any TWO of the following
Glycogen depletion
- The depletion of muscle glycogen throughout multiple games reduces energy availability for explosive movements like jumping and diving, leading to decreased power output in attacking plays.
Dehydration
- Progressive dehydration occurs during play in hot conditions, causing a decrease in blood plasma volume which reduces oxygen delivery to working muscles and impairs coordination for precise ball skills.
Electrolyte imbalance
- Electrolyte imbalance from excessive sweating in hot conditions leads to altered nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction efficiency, resulting in cramping and reduced reaction times for defensive plays.
Lactic acid accumulation
- Accumulation of lactic acid from repeated high-intensity rallies causes muscle pH to decrease, interfering with enzyme function and muscle contraction processes, leading to reduced jumping height and slower court movement.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer – Any TWO of the following
Glycogen depletion
- The depletion of muscle glycogen throughout multiple games reduces energy availability for explosive movements like jumping and diving, leading to decreased power output in attacking plays.
Dehydration
- Progressive dehydration occurs during play in hot conditions, causing a decrease in blood plasma volume which reduces oxygen delivery to working muscles and impairs coordination for precise ball skills.
Electrolyte imbalance
- Electrolyte imbalance from excessive sweating in hot conditions leads to altered nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction efficiency, resulting in cramping and reduced reaction times for defensive plays.
Lactic acid accumulation
- Accumulation of lactic acid from repeated high-intensity rallies causes muscle pH to decrease, interfering with enzyme function and muscle contraction processes, leading to reduced jumping height and slower court movement.