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HMS, TIP EQ-Bank 240

A cyclist has been following a progressive overload training program for 8 weeks, gradually increasing training duration from 30 minutes to 60 minutes per session. However, they decide to take a 4-week break from training due to work commitments.

Explain how the principle of reversibility would affect the physiological adaptations this cyclist has gained from their progressive overload training program.   (4 marks)

Show Answers Only
  • Progressive overload training creates cardiovascular adaptations including increased stroke volume and enhanced oxygen delivery capacity.
  • The training stimulus causes improved VO2 max and greater muscular endurance for sustained cycling performance
  • When training ceases, the principle of reversibility begins as the body no longer receives adequate stimulus for adaptation maintenance.
  • This leads to decreased stroke volume and reduced oxygen uptake capacity within several weeks of inactivity.
  • Consequently the cyclist experiences declining cardiovascular efficiency and reduced endurance performance compared to their peak training condition.
Show Worked Solution
  • Progressive overload training creates cardiovascular adaptations including increased stroke volume and enhanced oxygen delivery capacity.
  • The training stimulus causes improved VO2 max and greater muscular endurance for sustained cycling performance
  • When training ceases, the principle of reversibility begins as the body no longer receives adequate stimulus for adaptation maintenance.
  • This leads to decreased stroke volume and reduced oxygen uptake capacity within several weeks of inactivity.
  • Consequently the cyclist experiences declining cardiovascular efficiency and reduced endurance performance compared to their peak training condition.