HMS, BM EQ-Bank 63

Sample Answer

• The respiratory and circulatory systems work synergistically to enhance endurance performance through several adaptations and mechanisms.
• When functioning together efficiently, significant improvement an athlete’s aerobic capacity and endurance capabilities can be achieved.
• The respiratory system adapts by increasing vital capacity and strengthening respiratory muscles.
• This allows for greater tidal volume and more efficient gaseous exchange in the alveoli.
• The increased efficiency of oxygen diffusion from alveoli to pulmonary capillaries means more oxygen is available for working muscles.  
• The circulatory system simultaneously adapts by increasing stroke volume and cardiac efficiency.
• The pulmonary circulation becomes more efficient at managing increased blood flow
• The systemic circulation develops greater capillarisation in working muscles
• Improved vascularity enhances both oxygen delivery and waste product removal.

These adaptations working together result in:

• Improved oxygen delivery to working muscles
• Enhanced removal of carbon dioxide and other metabolic waste products
• Greater efficiency in matching ventilation with perfusion
• Increased endurance capacity through better oxygen utilization

The interrelationship between systems

• Means that improvements in one system directly benefit the other → compound effect
  • that enhances overall endurance performance.
  • evidenced by increased VO₂ max
  • delayed onset of fatigue in trained athletes