Compare the lactate levels experienced by a sprinter and a marathon runner during their respective competitions. Use examples to support your answer. (6 marks)
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Sample Answer
- Sprinters perform at very high intensity for short durations, relying heavily on anaerobic glycolysis, resulting in rapid and substantial lactate accumulation
- Marathon runners perform at moderate intensity for extended periods, predominantly using aerobic metabolism, maintaining lactate levels below or near their threshold
- A 100 m sprinter may reach peak lactate levels of 15-20 mmol/L immediately after competition due to the extreme anaerobic nature of the event
- In contrast, a marathon runner typically maintains lactate levels around 2-4 mmol/L during most of the race to ensure sustainable energy production
- Sprinters train to tolerate high lactate levels and associated discomfort, while marathon runners train to increase their lactate threshold to maintain higher speeds without excessive lactate accumulation
- For example, a sprinter might experience severe muscle burning from lactate buildup after a 400 m race, while a marathon runner might only experience similar sensations during the final sprint to the finish line
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Sample Answer
- Sprinters perform at very high intensity for short durations, relying heavily on anaerobic glycolysis, resulting in rapid and substantial lactate accumulation
- Marathon runners perform at moderate intensity for extended periods, predominantly using aerobic metabolism, maintaining lactate levels below or near their threshold
- A 100 m sprinter may reach peak lactate levels of 15-20 mmol/L immediately after competition due to the extreme anaerobic nature of the event
- In contrast, a marathon runner typically maintains lactate levels around 2-4 mmol/L during most of the race to ensure sustainable energy production
- Sprinters train to tolerate high lactate levels and associated discomfort, while marathon runners train to increase their lactate threshold to maintain higher speeds without excessive lactate accumulation
- For example, a sprinter might experience severe muscle burning from lactate buildup after a 400 m race, while a marathon runner might only experience similar sensations during the final sprint to the finish line