The FITT principle (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type) is commonly used to design aerobic training programs. Develop a research question that investigates how one component of the FITT principle affects a physiological response. Justify your choice of question and explain how you would ensure it is suitable for scientific investigation. (8 marks)
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Sample Answer
- A suitable research question would be: “How does varying exercise intensity (50%, 70%, and 90% of maximum heart rate) affect blood lactate levels during a 15-minute continuous cycling session?”
- This question isolates one specific FITT component (intensity) while controlling others (frequency, time, and type) to establish clear cause-effect relationships.
- Blood lactate is a measurable physiological response that directly reflects metabolic processes during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
- The question includes specific, quantifiable intensity levels creating distinct independent variable conditions for comparison.
- The time frame (15 minutes) is sufficient to observe physiological responses while remaining practical for research participants to complete.
- The question allows for collection of objective numerical data suitable for statistical analysis.
- The investigation could be conducted using a repeated measures design where each participant completes all three intensity levels, minimizing individual variation.
- Results would have practical applications for training prescription and understanding thresholds where metabolic pathways shift from primarily aerobic to increased anaerobic contribution.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer
- A suitable research question would be: “How does varying exercise intensity (50%, 70%, and 90% of maximum heart rate) affect blood lactate levels during a 15-minute continuous cycling session?”
- This question isolates one specific FITT component (intensity) while controlling others (frequency, time, and type) to establish clear cause-effect relationships.
- Blood lactate is a measurable physiological response that directly reflects metabolic processes during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
- The question includes specific, quantifiable intensity levels creating distinct independent variable conditions for comparison.
- The time frame (15 minutes) is sufficient to observe physiological responses while remaining practical for research participants to complete.
- The question allows for collection of objective numerical data suitable for statistical analysis.
- The investigation could be conducted using a repeated measures design where each participant completes all three intensity levels, minimizing individual variation.
- Results would have practical applications for training prescription and understanding thresholds where metabolic pathways shift from primarily aerobic to increased anaerobic contribution.