Discuss how protein intake affects muscle function and movement efficiency. Include reference to timing of intake in your response. (5 marks)
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*PEEL – Structure solution using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Sample Answer
Benefits of adequate protein intake:
- [P] On one hand, protein provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- [E] These building blocks rebuild muscle fibres damaged during exercise, enhancing strength.
- [Ev] Consuming 20-30g protein within 30 minutes post-exercise maximises muscle protein synthesis.
- [L] This demonstrates how proper timing optimises movement efficiency through faster recovery.
- [P] A key advantage is pre-exercise protein consumption maintains nitrogen balance during activity.
- [E] This prevents muscle breakdown and preserves movement quality throughout training.
- [Ev] Athletes consuming protein 2-3 hours before exercise show better endurance and power output.
- [L] This timing strategy supports sustained movement efficiency.
Challenges of inadequate protein intake:
- [P] From another angle, insufficient protein leads to incomplete muscle recovery between sessions.
- [E] This results in progressive muscle loss and decreased movement capacity.
- [Ev] Athletes consuming less than 1.2g/kg bodyweight show reduced strength gains and slower adaptation.
- [L] Nevertheless, this reveals how protein deficiency directly impairs movement efficiency over time.
*PEEL – Structure solution using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Sample Answer
Benefits of adequate protein intake:
- [P] On one hand, protein provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- [E] These building blocks rebuild muscle fibres damaged during exercise, enhancing strength.
- [Ev] Consuming 20-30g protein within 30 minutes post-exercise maximises muscle protein synthesis.
- [L] This demonstrates how proper timing optimises movement efficiency through faster recovery.
- [P] A key advantage is pre-exercise protein consumption maintains nitrogen balance during activity.
- [E] This prevents muscle breakdown and preserves movement quality throughout training.
- [Ev] Athletes consuming protein 2-3 hours before exercise show better endurance and power output.
- [L] This timing strategy supports sustained movement efficiency.
Challenges of inadequate protein intake:
- [P] From another angle, insufficient protein leads to incomplete muscle recovery between sessions.
- [E] This results in progressive muscle loss and decreased movement capacity.
- [Ev] Athletes consuming less than 1.2g/kg bodyweight show reduced strength gains and slower adaptation.
- [L] Nevertheless, this reveals how protein deficiency directly impairs movement efficiency over time.