Analyse how the structure and function of the digestive and endocrine systems affect energy production for an athlete during both anaerobic sprint training and an endurance event. (8 marks)
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Sample Answer
Overview Statement:
- The digestive and endocrine systems work together to provide energy for both sprint training and endurance events.
- Key relationships involve hormone release, nutrient absorption, and blood flow changes that adapt to different exercise demands.
Component Relationship 1:
- During sprint training, the endocrine system rapidly releases adrenaline and glucagon.
- Adrenaline increases heart rate for quick oxygen delivery while glucagon mobilises stored glucose from the liver.
- Blood flow diverts away from digestive organs to working muscles.
- The pattern shows immediate energy provision for short, intense efforts.
- Sprint athletes rely on pre-stored energy because digestion stops during high-intensity work.
- Therefore, quick hormone responses prove essential for explosive movements.
Component Relationship 2:
- Endurance events require continuous nutrient processing by the digestive system.
- The small intestine’s long length and villi enable maximum nutrient absorption during exercise.
- Cortisol helps the liver produce glucose throughout long activities.
- This interaction allows steady energy supply over extended periods.
- Athletes can absorb nutrients while exercising at moderate intensity.
- Consequently, digestive function remains partially active during endurance events.
Implications and Synthesis:
- Both systems demonstrate flexible responses based on exercise type.
- Sprint training depends on stored energy and rapid hormone action.
- Endurance events utilise ongoing digestion and sustained hormone release.
- The significance is that understanding these differences helps athletes fuel appropriately for their sport.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer
Overview Statement:
- The digestive and endocrine systems work together to provide energy for both sprint training and endurance events.
- Key relationships involve hormone release, nutrient absorption, and blood flow changes that adapt to different exercise demands.
Component Relationship 1:
- During sprint training, the endocrine system rapidly releases adrenaline and glucagon.
- Adrenaline increases heart rate for quick oxygen delivery while glucagon mobilises stored glucose from the liver.
- Blood flow diverts away from digestive organs to working muscles.
- The pattern shows immediate energy provision for short, intense efforts.
- Sprint athletes rely on pre-stored energy because digestion stops during high-intensity work.
- Therefore, quick hormone responses prove essential for explosive movements.
Component Relationship 2:
- Endurance events require continuous nutrient processing by the digestive system.
- The small intestine’s long length and villi enable maximum nutrient absorption during exercise.
- Cortisol helps the liver produce glucose throughout long activities.
- This interaction allows steady energy supply over extended periods.
- Athletes can absorb nutrients while exercising at moderate intensity.
- Consequently, digestive function remains partially active during endurance events.
Implications and Synthesis:
- Both systems demonstrate flexible responses based on exercise type.
- Sprint training depends on stored energy and rapid hormone action.
- Endurance events utilise ongoing digestion and sustained hormone release.
- The significance is that understanding these differences helps athletes fuel appropriately for their sport.