Describe how the nervous system controls movement in power activities versus endurance activities. (5 marks)
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Sample Answer
Power Activities:
- Rapid recruitment of fast-twitch motor units through high-frequency neural signals for maximal drive.
- Motor cortex sends maximal stimulation to activate large numbers of muscle fibres simultaneously within milliseconds.
- High threshold motor neurons fire to generate explosive force production with immediate total recruitment.
- Sympathetic nervous system maximally activated for immediate energy release, increasing adrenaline and glucose availability.
- Short duration neural firing patterns prevent fatigue of neural pathways but cause rapid.
Endurance Activities:
- Gradual recruitment of slow-twitch motor units through low-frequency neural signals for submaximal sustained activation.
- Motor cortex maintains steady, submaximal stimulation over extended periods through efficient neural coding.
- Low threshold motor neurons fire first, with systematic rotation of active motor units delaying fatigue.
- Parasympathetic influence helps maintain efficient heart rate and breathing rhythm, optimising oxygen delivery.
- Sustained neural firing patterns with motor unit rotation manage fatigue through gradual, rotating recruitment strategies.
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Sample Answer
Power Activities:
- Rapid recruitment of fast-twitch motor units through high-frequency neural signals for maximal drive.
- Motor cortex sends maximal stimulation to activate large numbers of muscle fibres simultaneously within milliseconds.
- High threshold motor neurons fire to generate explosive force production with immediate total recruitment.
- Sympathetic nervous system maximally activated for immediate energy release, increasing adrenaline and glucose availability.
- Short duration neural firing patterns prevent fatigue of neural pathways but cause rapid.
Endurance Activities:
- Gradual recruitment of slow-twitch motor units through low-frequency neural signals for submaximal sustained activation.
- Motor cortex maintains steady, submaximal stimulation over extended periods through efficient neural coding.
- Low threshold motor neurons fire first, with systematic rotation of active motor units delaying fatigue.
- Parasympathetic influence helps maintain efficient heart rate and breathing rhythm, optimising oxygen delivery.
- Sustained neural firing patterns with motor unit rotation manage fatigue through gradual, rotating recruitment strategies.