Evaluate the interrelationship between the digestive and endocrine systems when an athlete experiences pre-competition anxiety. (8 marks)
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Sample Answer
Evaluation Statement:
- The digestive-endocrine interrelationship proves moderately effective during pre-competition anxiety.
- This evaluation examines stress response activation and digestive function changes.
Stress Response Effectiveness:
- The endocrine system rapidly releases adrenaline and cortisol during anxiety.
- These hormones increase heart rate and blood glucose for competition readiness.
- Blood flow redirects from digestive organs to muscles within seconds.
- This prepares athletes for explosive performance requirements.
- Studies show moderate anxiety improves reaction times by 15-20%.
- The endocrine response strongly meets performance preparation needs.
Digestive System Impact:
- The digestive system significantly reduces function during anxiety.
- Decreased enzyme production impairs nutrient breakdown before competition.
- Dry mouth and nausea affect 70% of anxious athletes.
- Stomach “butterflies” can distract from mental preparation.
- Poor pre-competition nutrition absorption may limit energy availability.
- This partially fulfils athlete needs, creating notable disadvantages.
Final Evaluation:
- The interrelationship shows mixed effectiveness for athletic performance.
- While the endocrine system excellently mobilises energy resources, digestive disruption creates real challenges.
- Athletes who manage anxiety through breathing techniques show better system coordination.
- The relationship proves most effective when anxiety remains moderate rather than excessive, allowing beneficial arousal without severe digestive problems.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer
Evaluation Statement:
- The digestive-endocrine interrelationship proves moderately effective during pre-competition anxiety.
- This evaluation examines stress response activation and digestive function changes.
Stress Response Effectiveness:
- The endocrine system rapidly releases adrenaline and cortisol during anxiety.
- These hormones increase heart rate and blood glucose for competition readiness.
- Blood flow redirects from digestive organs to muscles within seconds.
- This prepares athletes for explosive performance requirements.
- Studies show moderate anxiety improves reaction times by 15-20%.
- The endocrine response strongly meets performance preparation needs.
Digestive System Impact:
- The digestive system significantly reduces function during anxiety.
- Decreased enzyme production impairs nutrient breakdown before competition.
- Dry mouth and nausea affect 70% of anxious athletes.
- Stomach “butterflies” can distract from mental preparation.
- Poor pre-competition nutrition absorption may limit energy availability.
- This partially fulfils athlete needs, creating notable disadvantages.
Final Evaluation:
- The interrelationship shows mixed effectiveness for athletic performance.
- While the endocrine system excellently mobilises energy resources, digestive disruption creates real challenges.
- Athletes who manage anxiety through breathing techniques show better system coordination.
- The relationship proves most effective when anxiety remains moderate rather than excessive, allowing beneficial arousal without severe digestive problems.