Compare the causes of fatigue between a 400m sprint and a marathon runner. (4 marks)
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- The 400 m sprinter experiences significant lactic acid accumulation as the glycolytic system dominates, causing the blood pH to drop below optimal levels and impacting muscle contraction efficiency.
- Marathon runners face severe glycogen depletion after approximately 90 minutes of continuous exercise, leading to a significant decrease in energy availability for working muscles.
- The 400 m athlete experiences acute neural fatigue from maximal recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibres, impacting power output and coordination in the latter stages of the race.
- Marathon runners face progressive dehydration and electrolyte imbalance over the extended duration, affecting cellular function and muscle contraction capability.
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Sample Answer
- The 400 m sprinter experiences significant lactic acid accumulation as the glycolytic system dominates, causing the blood pH to drop below optimal levels and impacting muscle contraction efficiency.
- Marathon runners face severe glycogen depletion after approximately 90 minutes of continuous exercise, leading to a significant decrease in energy availability for working muscles.
- The 400 m athlete experiences acute neural fatigue from maximal recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibres, impacting power output and coordination in the latter stages of the race.
- Marathon runners face progressive dehydration and electrolyte imbalance over the extended duration, affecting cellular function and muscle contraction capability.