Explain why marathon runners use physiological and neural strategies during recovery. Use examples to support your answer. (8 marks)
--- 24 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---
Show Answers Only
- Marathon runners use physiological recovery strategies because their bodies experience significant metabolic stress and fluid loss. This occurs because prolonged running depletes energy stores and accumulates metabolic waste products. For example, cool-down strategies involving light jogging and walking help to gradually reduce heart rate and metabolism. This leads to improved waste product removal and prevents blood pooling in the lower limbs. The reason for this is active recovery maintains circulation while reducing exercise intensity.
- Hydration strategies are essential because marathon running causes substantial fluid and electrolyte loss through sweating. This results in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that impair recovery. For instance, consuming sports drinks with sodium and potassium enables rapid rehydration and electrolyte replacement. Consequently, proper hydration facilitates cellular repair processes and temperature regulation.
- Neural recovery strategies are used because marathon running creates psychological fatigue and stress responses. This happens when prolonged exercise elevates cortisol levels and creates mental exhaustion. For example, hydrotherapy using contrast water therapy helps to stimulate blood circulation and provide psychological relaxation. This process ensures reduced muscle tension and improved mental wellbeing. Therefore, neural strategies support both physical recovery and psychological restoration after intense endurance exercise.
Show Worked Solution
- Marathon runners use physiological recovery strategies because their bodies experience significant metabolic stress and fluid loss. This occurs because prolonged running depletes energy stores and accumulates metabolic waste products. For example, cool-down strategies involving light jogging and walking help to gradually reduce heart rate and metabolism. This leads to improved waste product removal and prevents blood pooling in the lower limbs. The reason for this is active recovery maintains circulation while reducing exercise intensity.
- Hydration strategies are essential because marathon running causes substantial fluid and electrolyte loss through sweating. This results in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that impair recovery. For instance, consuming sports drinks with sodium and potassium enables rapid rehydration and electrolyte replacement. Consequently, proper hydration facilitates cellular repair processes and temperature regulation.
- Neural recovery strategies are used because marathon running creates psychological fatigue and stress responses. This happens when prolonged exercise elevates cortisol levels and creates mental exhaustion. For example, hydrotherapy using contrast water therapy helps to stimulate blood circulation and provide psychological relaxation. This process ensures reduced muscle tension and improved mental wellbeing. Therefore, neural strategies support both physical recovery and psychological restoration after intense endurance exercise.
♦♦ Mean mark 48%.