Describe the potential effects of caffeine on an athlete's performance. (4 marks)
--- 10 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---
Show Answers Only
Positive Effects (choose 2)
- Enhanced Mental Function: Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. This improves concentration, alertness and decision-making during competition.
- Faster Reaction Time: Central nervous system stimulation speeds responses to stimuli, helping athletes react quickly in sports such as tennis or basketball.
- Increased Endurance: Caffeine reduces the perception of effort and fatigue. This allows athletes to sustain a higher intensity for longer in endurance events.
Negative Effects
- Overstimulation: Excessive caffeine causes nervousness and tremors. This impairs the fine motor control required in precision sports such as archery or golf.
- Sleep Disruption: Caffeine consumed later in the day can delay sleep and reduce sleep quality. This limits recovery and may lower performance in the following day’s training or competition.
Show Worked Solution
Positive Effects (choose 2)
- Enhanced Mental Function: Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. This improves concentration, alertness and decision-making during competition.
- Faster Reaction Time: Central nervous system stimulation speeds responses to stimuli, helping athletes react quickly in sports such as tennis or basketball.
- Increased Endurance: Caffeine reduces the perception of effort and fatigue. This allows athletes to sustain a higher intensity for longer in endurance events.
Negative Effects
- Overstimulation: Excessive caffeine causes nervousness and tremors. This impairs the fine motor control required in precision sports such as archery or golf.
- Sleep Disruption: Caffeine consumed later in the day can delay sleep and reduce sleep quality. This limits recovery and may lower performance in the following day’s training or competition.