Explain the extent to which physiological data collected during a 6-week aerobic training study can be used to draw conclusions about long-term responses to aerobic exercise. (4 marks)
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Sample Answer
- A 6-week study captures initial improvements in heart rate and recovery time but cannot show the complete range of cardiovascular benefits because longer periods are needed for full development.
- Short-term studies show direction of change but cannot predict whether improvements will continue due to individual variation in response patterns over extended periods.
- The reason for this is that individual differences in response become more apparent over time which means 6-week studies might not represent the variety of long-term patterns.
- Early rapid improvements often slow down as a result of the body adjusting to training loads which limits direct long-term predictions.
- Therefore a 6-week timeframe provides valid information about immediate responses but requires appropriate caution when drawing conclusions about long-term effects.
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Sample Answer
- A 6-week study captures initial improvements in heart rate and recovery time but cannot show the complete range of cardiovascular benefits because longer periods are needed for full development.
- Short-term studies show direction of change but cannot predict whether improvements will continue due to individual variation in response patterns over extended periods.
- The reason for this is that individual differences in response become more apparent over time which means 6-week studies might not represent the variety of long-term patterns.
- Early rapid improvements often slow down as a result of the body adjusting to training loads which limits direct long-term predictions.
- Therefore a 6-week timeframe provides valid information about immediate responses but requires appropriate caution when drawing conclusions about long-term effects.