SmarterEd

Aussie Maths & Science Teachers: Save your time with SmarterEd

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 795 MC

What happens to stroke volume during the immediate response to high-intensity exercise?

  1. Stroke volume decreases due to reduced venous return
  2. Stroke volume increases then plateaus at approximately 40 - 50% of maximum intensity
  3. Stroke volume gradually decreases as exercise duration increases
  4. Stroke volume remains unchanged from resting levels regardless of exercise intensity
Show Answers Only

\(B\)

Show Worked Solution
  • B is correct: Stroke volume increases then plateaus at moderate intensity

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Stroke volume increases not decreases during exercise
  • C is incorrect: Stroke volume plateaus rather than gradually decreasing
  • D is incorrect: Stroke volume increases from resting levels

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 362

Describe the relationship between heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output during aerobic training.   (4 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

  • Cardiac output increases during aerobic training due to increases in both heart rate and stroke volume.
  • Heart rate increases proportionally to exercise intensity, often reaching 120-180 beats per minute depending on fitness and intensity.
  • Stroke volume increases initially but plateaus at moderate intensity exercise.
  • The relationship can be expressed as Cardiac Output = Heart Rate × Stroke Volume, showing how both components contribute to increased blood flow.
  • As exercise continues, heart rate becomes the primary contributor to cardiac output increases. Stroke volume remains relatively stable after its initial rise.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • Cardiac output increases during aerobic training due to increases in both heart rate and stroke volume.
  • Heart rate increases proportionally to exercise intensity, often reaching 120-180 beats per minute depending on fitness and intensity.
  • Stroke volume increases initially but plateaus at moderate intensity exercise.
  • The relationship can be expressed as Cardiac Output = Heart Rate × Stroke Volume, showing how both components contribute to increased blood flow.
  • As exercise continues, heart rate becomes the primary contributor to cardiac output increases. Stroke volume remains relatively stable after its initial rise.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 360

Outline the immediate physiological responses to aerobic training.   (3 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

  • Heart rate increases to deliver more oxygen to working muscles
  • Ventilation rate increases to take in more oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
  • Cardiac output increases as both heart rate and stroke volume rise to meet increased oxygen demand
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • Heart rate increases to deliver more oxygen to working muscles
  • Ventilation rate increases to take in more oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
  • Cardiac output increases as both heart rate and stroke volume rise to meet increased oxygen demand

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 357 MC

During a 30 minute jog, a student recorded an increase in their cardiac output. This change is primarily due to:

  1. Decreased blood pressure
  2. Increased respiratory rate
  3. Increased heart rate and stroke volume
  4. Decreased peripheral resistance
Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution

Consider Option C: Increased heart rate and stroke volume

  • Cardiac output increases during aerobic exercise due to both increased heart rate and stroke volume.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Blood pressure typically increases (not decreases) during exercise.
  • B is incorrect: Respiratory rate increases but doesn’t directly cause cardiac output increase.
  • D is incorrect: Peripheral resistance decreases but isn’t the primary cause of increased cardiac output.

\(\Rightarrow C\)

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 355

Olympic swimming coach Michelle is monitoring her athlete's lactate levels during training to help prepare for the upcoming 200m freestyle event.

  1. Describe the relationship between exercise intensity and lactate production during swimming training.   (3 marks)
  2. Explain TWO immediate physiological responses that occur alongside changes in lactate levels during high-intensity swimming.   (3 marks)
  3. Outline ONE benefit of monitoring lactate levels during swimming training.   (2 marks)
Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

a.   Relationship between exercise intensity and lactate production

  • At low swimming intensities (easy warm-up pace), lactate levels remain close to resting values (1-2 mmol/L) as the aerobic system adequately meets energy demands.
  • As swimming intensity increases to moderate levels, there is a gradual increase in lactate production, though the body can still effectively clear most lactate produced.
  • During high-intensity swimming (race pace), lactate levels rise significantly (may exceed 8-10 mmol/L) as the glycolytic energy system becomes the primary energy provider, producing lactate as a by-product.

b.   Immediate physiological responses –  Any TWO of the following

  • Heart rate increases substantially during high-intensity swimming as the cardiovascular system works to deliver more oxygen to working muscles, rising in proportion to the increase in lactate levels.
  • Ventilation rate (breathing rate) increases dramatically alongside rising lactate levels, as the swimmer attempts to take in more oxygen and expel carbon dioxide, often resulting in the characteristic gasping for air seen at the end of a race.
  • Stroke volume may initially increase but then plateau during very high-intensity swimming when lactate levels are highest.
  • Cardiac output increases proportionally with intensity to support greater oxygen demand and assist with lactate clearance.

c.   Benefit – Any ONE of the following

  • Monitoring lactate levels allows the coach to precisely determine appropriate training intensities for specific energy system development, ensuring the swimmer trains at the correct intensity to improve performance in the 200 m event.
  • Lactate testing provides objective feedback about the swimmer’s physiological response to training, allowing for adjustments to training volume and intensity based on individual adaptations rather than subjective feelings of effort.
  • Regular lactate monitoring can track improvements in the swimmer’s fitness, with lower lactate levels at the same swimming speed indicating enhanced aerobic capacity and efficiency.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

 a.   Relationship between exercise intensity and lactate production

  • At low swimming intensities (easy warm-up pace), lactate levels remain close to resting values (1-2 mmol/L) as the aerobic system adequately meets energy demands.
  • As swimming intensity increases to moderate levels, there is a gradual increase in lactate production, though the body can still effectively clear most lactate produced.
  • During high-intensity swimming (race pace), lactate levels rise significantly (may exceed 8-10 mmol/L) as the glycolytic energy system becomes the primary energy provider, producing lactate as a by-product.

b.   Immediate physiological responses – Any TWO of the following

  • Heart rate increases substantially during high-intensity swimming as the cardiovascular system works to deliver more oxygen to working muscles, rising in proportion to the increase in lactate levels.
  • Ventilation rate (breathing rate) increases dramatically alongside rising lactate levels, as the swimmer attempts to take in more oxygen and expel carbon dioxide, often resulting in the characteristic gasping for air seen at the end of a race.
  • Stroke volume may initially increase but then plateau during very high-intensity swimming when lactate levels are highest.
  • Cardiac output increases proportionally with intensity to support greater oxygen demand and assist with lactate clearance.

c.   Benefit – Any ONE of the following

  • Monitoring lactate levels allows the coach to precisely determine appropriate training intensities for specific energy system development, ensuring the swimmer trains at the correct intensity to improve performance in the 200 m event.
  • Lactate testing provides objective feedback about the swimmer’s physiological response to training, allowing for adjustments to training volume and intensity based on individual adaptations rather than subjective feelings of effort.
  • Regular lactate monitoring can track improvements in the swimmer’s fitness, with lower lactate levels at the same swimming speed indicating enhanced aerobic capacity and efficiency.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 350

Analyse the relationship between lactate levels and other immediate physiological responses during high-intensity interval training (HIIT).   (8 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

  • During HIIT, lactate levels increase rapidly during high-intensity intervals as the body relies heavily on glycolytic energy systems, causing an accumulation of lactate in the muscles and bloodstream
  • Heart rate increases proportionally with exercise intensity, with a correlation between elevated heart rate and increased lactate production during high-intensity intervals
  • Ventilation rate (breathing rate) increases to expel carbon dioxide and supply more oxygen, with rapid breathing during intense exercise periods coinciding with rising lactate levels
  • Stroke volume initially increases but may plateau or slightly decrease during very high-intensity intervals when lactate levels are at their highest
  • Cardiac output increases to deliver more oxygen to working muscles and help remove lactate, showing a direct relationship with rising lactate concentrations
  • Recovery intervals allow partial clearance of lactate as the body returns toward homeostasis, demonstrating the dynamic relationship between work and recovery periods
  • For example, a soccer player performing sprint intervals would experience rapid increases in lactate levels, heart rate, and ventilation during sprints, with partial recovery during rest periods
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • During HIIT, lactate levels increase rapidly during high-intensity intervals as the body relies heavily on glycolytic energy systems, causing an accumulation of lactate in the muscles and bloodstream
  • Heart rate increases proportionally with exercise intensity, with a correlation between elevated heart rate and increased lactate production during high-intensity intervals
  • Ventilation rate (breathing rate) increases to expel carbon dioxide and supply more oxygen, with rapid breathing during intense exercise periods coinciding with rising lactate levels
  • Stroke volume initially increases but may plateau or slightly decrease during very high-intensity intervals when lactate levels are at their highest
  • Cardiac output increases to deliver more oxygen to working muscles and help remove lactate, showing a direct relationship with rising lactate concentrations
  • Recovery intervals allow partial clearance of lactate as the body returns toward homeostasis, demonstrating the dynamic relationship between work and recovery periods
  • For example, a soccer player performing sprint intervals would experience rapid increases in lactate levels, heart rate, and ventilation during sprints, with partial recovery during rest periods

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 344

Analyse the relationship between cardiac output, heart rate and stroke volume as immediate physiological responses to a 30-minute continuous aerobic training session.   (6 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

Cardiac output relationship to heart rate and stroke volume:

  • Cardiac output = Heart rate × Stroke volume
  • All three increase immediately at the onset of exercise

Initial response (first few minutes):

  • Heart rate increases rapidly due to nervous system stimulation
  • Stroke volume increases due to increased venous return from muscle contractions
  • These combined changes result in rapid increase in cardiac output

Mid-session response:

  • Heart rate may continue to increase gradually
  • Stroke volume typically stabilises after initial increase
  • Cardiac output reaches a relatively steady state appropriate for the exercise intensity

Physiological mechanisms:

  • Increased heart rate results from decreased parasympathetic and increased sympathetic stimulation
  • Increased stroke volume results from greater ventricular filling and stronger heart contractions
  • These adaptations ensure sufficient blood flow to meet the oxygen demands of working muscles

Interrelationship

  • The relationship between these variables ensures the body can maintain the required exercise intensity throughout the training session
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Cardiac output relationship to heart rate and stroke volume:

  • Cardiac output = Heart rate × Stroke volume
  • All three increase immediately at the onset of exercise

Initial response (first few minutes):

  • Heart rate increases rapidly due to nervous system stimulation
  • Stroke volume increases due to increased venous return from muscle contractions
  • These combined changes result in rapid increase in cardiac output

Mid-session response:

  • Heart rate may continue to increase gradually
  • Stroke volume typically stabilises after initial increase
  • Cardiac output reaches a relatively steady state appropriate for the exercise intensity

Physiological mechanisms:

  • Increased heart rate results from decreased parasympathetic and increased sympathetic stimulation
  • Increased stroke volume results from greater ventricular filling and stronger heart contractions
  • These adaptations ensure sufficient blood flow to meet the oxygen demands of working muscles

Interrelationship

  • The relationship between these variables ensures the body can maintain the required exercise intensity throughout the training session

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 338

Evaluate how different types of training affect the immediate response of stroke volume and how these responses contribute to performance in endurance and power-based sports.   (8 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

Evaluation Statement:

  • Training types affect stroke volume differently.
  • Aerobic training proves highly effective for endurance sports.
  • Resistance training shows limited cardiovascular benefits for power sports.

Criterion 1 – Stroke Volume Response Effectiveness:

  • Aerobic training strongly meets the needs of endurance athletes. Substantial stroke volume increases can be sustained throughout exercise.
  • Consistent oxygen supply proves crucial for marathon running or cycling. Endurance athletes rely heavily on this cardiovascular response.
  • In contrast, resistance training partially fulfills power athletes’ needs. Brief stroke volume spikes occur during lifts.
  • However, minimal sustained cardiovascular benefits result from resistance training. Power athletes experience limited stroke volume improvements.
  • Such limitations matter less for weightlifters. Different energy systems drive their performance requirements.

Criterion 2 – Performance Transfer:

  • Evidence indicates that aerobic training’s stroke volume improvements directly enhance endurance performance. Improved oxygen delivery efficiency results from these changes.
  • Athletes maintain higher cardiac output with lower heart rates. Energy conservation over long durations becomes possible.
  • Power training shows strong muscular development but limited stroke volume contributions. ATP-PCr and glycolytic systems drive performance more than oxygen transport.
  • The mismatch between training response and sport demands is acceptable. Power sports require explosive force rather than sustained oxygen delivery.

Final Evaluation:

  • Weighing these factors shows aerobic training produces highly effective stroke volume responses. Endurance performance benefits significantly from these cardiovascular improvements. 
  • Resistance training’s limited stroke volume benefits remain adequate for power sports. Other energy systems matter more than cardiovascular changes in power activities.
  • Therefore, matching training type to sport demands proves optimal. Each training method serves its intended purpose effectively.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

Evaluation Statement:

  • Training types affect stroke volume differently.
  • Aerobic training proves highly effective for endurance sports.
  • Resistance training shows limited cardiovascular benefits for power sports.

Criterion 1 – Stroke Volume Response Effectiveness:

  • Aerobic training strongly meets the needs of endurance athletes. Substantial stroke volume increases can be sustained throughout exercise.
  • Consistent oxygen supply proves crucial for marathon running or cycling. Endurance athletes rely heavily on this cardiovascular response.
  • In contrast, resistance training partially fulfills power athletes’ needs. Brief stroke volume spikes occur during lifts.
  • However, minimal sustained cardiovascular benefits result from resistance training. Power athletes experience limited stroke volume improvements.
  • Such limitations matter less for weightlifters. Different energy systems drive their performance requirements.

Criterion 2 – Performance Transfer:

  • Evidence indicates that aerobic training’s stroke volume improvements directly enhance endurance performance. Improved oxygen delivery efficiency results from these changes.
  • Athletes maintain higher cardiac output with lower heart rates. Energy conservation over long durations becomes possible.
  • Power training shows strong muscular development but limited stroke volume contributions. ATP-PCr and glycolytic systems drive performance more than oxygen transport.
  • The mismatch between training response and sport demands is acceptable. Power sports require explosive force rather than sustained oxygen delivery.

Final Evaluation:

  • Weighing these factors shows aerobic training produces highly effective stroke volume responses. Endurance performance benefits significantly from these cardiovascular improvements. 
  • Resistance training’s limited stroke volume benefits remain adequate for power sports. Other energy systems matter more than cardiovascular changes in power activities.
  • Therefore, matching training type to sport demands proves optimal. Each training method serves its intended purpose effectively.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 337

Explain the relationship between stroke volume, heart rate and cardiac output during an aerobic training session.   (6 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

  • Cardiac output functions through the interaction of stroke volume and heart rate. The formula CO = SV × HR demonstrates this direct relationship.
  • At exercise onset, both components increase immediately. The plateau happens because working muscles demand more oxygen for energy production.
  • Stroke volume rises from resting values to near-maximum levels quickly. As a result, cardiac output increases substantially within the first minutes of exercise.
  • However, stroke volume plateaus at moderate intensity while heart rate continues rising. This happens because ventricular filling time decreases at higher heart rates.
  • Therefore, further cardiac output increases depend primarily on heart rate. The shift occurs when stroke volume reaches its maximum capacity at moderate intensities.
  • During sustained aerobic exercise, heart rate becomes the main contributor. Consequently, cardiac output can continue increasing despite stable stroke volume.
  • The recovery phase shows different response patterns. Heart rate drops rapidly while stroke volume decreases more gradually.
  • These differences occur because neural control affects heart rate immediately. Stroke volume changes depend on venous return and contractility adjustments.
  • Overall, the relationship between components enables flexible cardiac output regulation. Such coordination allows the cardiovascular system to meet varying oxygen demands throughout aerobic training.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • Cardiac output functions through the interaction of stroke volume and heart rate. The formula CO = SV × HR demonstrates this direct relationship.
  • At exercise onset, both components increase immediately. The plateau happens because working muscles demand more oxygen for energy production.
  • Stroke volume rises from resting values to near-maximum levels quickly. As a result, cardiac output increases substantially within the first minutes of exercise.
  • However, stroke volume plateaus at moderate intensity while heart rate continues rising. This happens because ventricular filling time decreases at higher heart rates.
  • Therefore, further cardiac output increases depend primarily on heart rate. The shift occurs when stroke volume reaches its maximum capacity at moderate intensities.
  • During sustained aerobic exercise, heart rate becomes the main contributor. Consequently, cardiac output can continue increasing despite stable stroke volume.
  • The recovery phase shows different response patterns. Heart rate drops rapidly while stroke volume decreases more gradually.
  • These differences occur because neural control affects heart rate immediately. Stroke volume changes depend on venous return and contractility adjustments.
  • Overall, the relationship between components enables flexible cardiac output regulation. Such coordination allows the cardiovascular system to meet varying oxygen demands throughout aerobic training.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 336

Compare the immediate responses in stroke volume between a trained athlete and an untrained individual when both complete the same moderate-intensity aerobic exercise.   (6 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

Similarities:

  • Both trained and untrained individuals show immediate stroke volume increases when exercise begins.
  • Each person reaches peak stroke volume at moderate intensity levels.
  • Stroke volume plateaus in all exercisers as intensity increases further.
  • Recovery patterns show gradual decreases regardless of fitness level.
  • Both groups rely on stroke volume increases to support oxygen delivery initially.

Differences:

  • Trained individuals have substantially higher resting stroke volume. Untrained individuals start from a lower baseline value.
  • Athletes achieve much greater maximum stroke volume during exercise. Untrained participants reach considerably lower peak values.
  • Conditioned exercisers reach steady-state stroke volume more quickly. Enhanced cardiac efficiency allows faster stabilisation.
  • Experienced athletes maintain higher stroke volume with less heart rate compensation. Untrained individuals rely more heavily on heart rate increases.
  • Recovery shows distinct patterns between groups. Trained participants demonstrate slower stroke volume decline post-exercise.
  • The magnitude of increase differs significantly. Athletic individuals show much larger percentage increases from rest to exercise.
  • Trained athletes sustain elevated stroke volume for longer periods. Untrained individuals experience earlier decline during prolonged exercise.

Conclusion:

  • These differences enable trained athletes to maintain efficient cardiac output. Less cardiovascular stress occurs during identical moderate-intensity exercise.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

Similarities:

  • Both trained and untrained individuals show immediate stroke volume increases when exercise begins.
  • Each person reaches peak stroke volume at moderate intensity levels.
  • Stroke volume plateaus in all exercisers as intensity increases further.
  • Recovery patterns show gradual decreases regardless of fitness level.
  • Both groups rely on stroke volume increases to support oxygen delivery initially.

Differences:

  • Trained individuals have substantially higher resting stroke volume. Untrained individuals start from a lower baseline value.
  • Athletes achieve much greater maximum stroke volume during exercise. Untrained participants reach considerably lower peak values.
  • Conditioned exercisers reach steady-state stroke volume more quickly. Enhanced cardiac efficiency allows faster stabilisation.
  • Experienced athletes maintain higher stroke volume with less heart rate compensation. Untrained individuals rely more heavily on heart rate increases.
  • Recovery shows distinct patterns between groups. Trained participants demonstrate slower stroke volume decline post-exercise.
  • The magnitude of increase differs significantly. Athletic individuals show much larger percentage increases from rest to exercise.
  • Trained athletes sustain elevated stroke volume for longer periods. Untrained individuals experience earlier decline during prolonged exercise.

Conclusion:

  • These differences enable trained athletes to maintain efficient cardiac output. Less cardiovascular stress occurs during identical moderate-intensity exercise.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 335

Explain how stroke volume changes during a 45-minute moderate-intensity aerobic training session and why these changes occur.   (4 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

  • Stroke volume increases rapidly at the start of the session as the sympathetic nervous system activates, increasing heart contractility.
  • The increase in stroke volume is due to increased venous return through the muscular pump mechanism.
  • During steady-state exercise, stroke volume stabilises as cardiac output meets oxygen demands.
  • During prolonged exercise, stroke volume may gradually decrease due to factors such as dehydration and reduced venous return.
  • Post-exercise, stroke volume gradually returns to resting levels as the heart’s activity normalizes and returns to its pre-exercise state.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • Stroke volume increases rapidly at the start of the session as the sympathetic nervous system activates, increasing heart contractility.
  • The increase in stroke volume is due to increased venous return through the muscular pump mechanism.
  • During steady-state exercise, stroke volume stabilises as cardiac output meets oxygen demands.
  • During prolonged exercise, stroke volume may gradually decrease due to factors such as dehydration and reduced venous return.
  • Post-exercise, stroke volume gradually returns to resting levels as the heart’s activity normalizes and returns to its pre-exercise state.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 334

Outline the relationship between stroke volume and training intensity during exercise.   (3 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

  • Stroke volume increases progressively as exercise intensity rises from rest. This continues up to approximately 40-60% of maximum intensity.
  • Beyond this point, stroke volume plateaus at its maximum level. Further intensity increases do not produce additional stroke volume gains.
  • At very high intensities, stroke volume may decrease slightly. This occurs because rapid heart rate reduces ventricular filling time.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer 

  • Stroke volume increases progressively as exercise intensity rises from rest. This continues up to approximately 40-60% of maximum intensity.
  • Beyond this point, stroke volume plateaus at its maximum level. Further intensity increases do not produce additional stroke volume gains.
  • At very high intensities, stroke volume may decrease slightly. This occurs because rapid heart rate reduces ventricular filling time.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 333 MC

Which of the following training methods would be MOST effective in increasing stroke volume for a swimmer training for a 1500 m event?

  1. Continuous training at 70% of maximum heart rate
  2. High-intensity interval training at 90% of maximum heart rate
  3. Sprint training at maximum intensity for 10 seconds
  4. Weight training with heavy loads and low repetitions
Show Answers Only

\(A\)

Show Worked Solution
  • A is correct: Continuous aerobic training at moderate intensity (70% MHR) is most effective for increasing stroke volume as it promotes adaptations in the heart’s ability to pump more blood per beat.

Other Options:

  • B is incorrect: HIIT primarily improves anaerobic capacity rather than maximising stroke volume
  • C is incorrect: Sprint training primarily develops the ATP-PCr energy system, not stroke volume
  • D is incorrect: Weight training primarily improves strength, not stroke volume

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 332 MC

During a training session, an athlete experiences an increase in stroke volume. Which of the following best explains this physiological response?

  1. The number of times the heart beats per minute has increased
  2. The volume of blood pumped per beat of the heart has increased
  3. The amount of oxygen the lungs can absorb has increased
  4. The amount of blood circulating through the body has increased
Show Answers Only

\(B\)

Show Worked Solution
  • B is correct: Stroke volume is blood pumped per heartbeat

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: This describes heart rate, not stroke volume
  • C is incorrect: This describes oxygen uptake, not stroke volume
  • D is incorrect: This describes blood volume, not stroke volume

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 324

Analyse how different intensity levels of exercise affect the heart rate response in a trained versus untrained individual.   (8 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer

  • During a progressive exercise test, heart rate, cardiac output and stroke volume interact to meet the increasing metabolic demands of the working muscles.
  • Early stages (low intensity)
    • Heart rate increases linearly from resting levels (60-80 bpm) to approximately 110-130 bpm.
    • Cardiac output increases primarily due to increased stroke volume, which may increase from 70-80 ml/beat at rest to 100-120 ml/beat.
  • Moderate intensity
    • Heart rate continues to increase linearly (130-160 bpm) and stroke volume may reach its maximum capacity (120-150 ml/beat in average individuals).
    • The continued increase in cardiac output at this stage is primarily due to increasing heart rate.
  • High-intensity exercise (80-90% of maximum heart rate)
    • Stroke volume typically plateaus while heart rate continues to increase, approaching maximum levels (170-200 bpm depending on age).
    • Cardiac output continues to rise due to increasing heart rate despite stable stroke volume.
  • Very high intensity exercise
    • Less time is available for ventricular filling between beats, which may cause a slight decrease in stroke volume.
    • The heart compensates by further increasing heart rate to maintain or increase cardiac output.
  • The relationship between these variables demonstrates an effective compensatory mechanism that allows the cardiovascular system to meet metabolic demands efficiently.
  • In untrained individuals, heart rate increases more rapidly and stroke volume plateaus at a lower level
  • In trained individuals, require higher heart rates to achieve the same cardiac output.
  • The interrelationship between heart rate, cardiac output and stroke volume demonstrates how the cardiovascular system adapts during exercise, with cardiac output increasing through changes in both heart rate and stroke volume to meet the body’s changing oxygen demands.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

  • During a progressive exercise test, heart rate, cardiac output and stroke volume interact to meet the increasing metabolic demands of the working muscles.
  • Early stages (low intensity)
    • Heart rate increases linearly from resting levels (60-80 bpm) to approximately 110-130 bpm.
    • Cardiac output increases primarily due to increased stroke volume, which may increase from 70-80 ml/beat at rest to 100-120 ml/beat.
  • Moderate intensity
    • Heart rate continues to increase linearly (130-160 bpm) and stroke volume may reach its maximum capacity (120-150 ml/beat in average individuals).
    • The continued increase in cardiac output at this stage is primarily due to increasing heart rate.
  • High-intensity exercise (80-90% of maximum heart rate)
    • Stroke volume typically plateaus while heart rate continues to increase, approaching maximum levels (170-200 bpm depending on age).
    • Cardiac output continues to rise due to increasing heart rate despite stable stroke volume.
  • Very high intensity exercise
    • Less time is available for ventricular filling between beats, which may cause a slight decrease in stroke volume.
    • The heart compensates by further increasing heart rate to maintain or increase cardiac output.
  • The relationship between these variables demonstrates an effective compensatory mechanism that allows the cardiovascular system to meet metabolic demands efficiently.
  • In untrained individuals, heart rate increases more rapidly and stroke volume plateaus at a lower level
  • In trained individuals, require higher heart rates to achieve the same cardiac output.
  • The interrelationship between heart rate, cardiac output and stroke volume demonstrates how the cardiovascular system adapts during exercise, with cardiac output increasing through changes in both heart rate and stroke volume to meet the body’s changing oxygen demands.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 317

Analyse how the immediate physiological responses to high-intensity interval training differ from those during continuous moderate-intensity training. In your answer, address cardiac, respiratory, and metabolic responses.   (12 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

Heart rate

  • HIIT
    • HR rises to near-maximum levels during work intervals
    • Partially recovers during rest periods, creating a fluctuating pattern.
  • CMIT
    • Steady elevated heart rate maintained throughout the session.

Stroke volume

  • HIIT
    • Reaches high levels during intense work intervals when the heart contracts forcefully.
    • Decreases during recovery periods.
  • CMIT
    • Increases to a moderate level and remains relatively consistent throughout the session.

Cardiac output

  • HIIT
    • Alternates between very high levels during work intervals and moderate levels during recovery
  • CMIT
    • Steady moderate cardiac output throughout training.

Blood pressure

  • HIIT
    • Sharp increases during work intervals with incomplete recovery between intervals 
  • CMIT
    • Moderate but stable increase in blood pressure.

Breathing rate

  • HIIT
    • Becomes very rapid during intense work intervals
    • Remains elevated during recovery periods as the body attempts to restore oxygen levels.
  • CMIT
    • Increases to a moderate level that matches the steady exercise intensity.

Oxygen consumption

  • HIIT
    • Repeatedly switches between very high demands during work intervals and recovery periods where the body attempts to repay oxygen deficit.
  • CMIT
    • Establishes a steady oxygen consumption that matches the consistent workload.

Lactate production

  • HIIT
    • Exceeds the body’s ability to remove it during intense intervals, causing lactate to accumulate throughout the session
  • CMIT
    • Production and removal remain relatively balanced, maintaining lactate at lower steady levels.

Energy systems

  • HIIT
    • Heavily relies on both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems during the intense intervals.
  • CMIT
    • Primarily uses the aerobic energy system throughout the session.

Muscle fibre recruitment

  • HIIT
    • Activates both slow-twitch and fast-twitch muscle fibres during high-intensity intervals
  • CMIT
    • Predominantly recruits slow-twitch, fatigue-resistant fibres.

Recovery patterns

  • HIIT
    • The body requires longer to return to resting levels due to greater physiological disruption
  • CMIT
    • Typically occurs more quickly since physiological systems weren’t pushed to their limits.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Heart rate

  • HIIT
    • HR rises to near-maximum levels during work intervals
    • Partially recovers during rest periods, creating a fluctuating pattern.
  • CMIT
    • Steady elevated heart rate maintained throughout the session.

Stroke volume

  • HIIT
    • Reaches high levels during intense work intervals when the heart contracts forcefully.
    • Decreases during recovery periods.
  • CMIT
    • Increases to a moderate level and remains relatively consistent throughout the session.

Cardiac output

  • HIIT
    • Alternates between very high levels during work intervals and moderate levels during recovery
  • CMIT
    • Steady moderate cardiac output throughout training.

Blood pressure

  • HIIT
    • Sharp increases during work intervals with incomplete recovery between intervals 
  • CMIT
    • Moderate but stable increase in blood pressure.

Breathing rate

  • HIIT
    • Becomes very rapid during intense work intervals
    • Remains elevated during recovery periods as the body attempts to restore oxygen levels.
  • CMIT
    • Increases to a moderate level that matches the steady exercise intensity.

Oxygen consumption

  • HIIT
    • Repeatedly switches between very high demands during work intervals and recovery periods where the body attempts to repay oxygen deficit.
  • CMIT
    • Establishes a steady oxygen consumption that matches the consistent workload.

Lactate production

  • HIIT
    • Exceeds the body’s ability to remove it during intense intervals, causing lactate to accumulate throughout the session
  • CMIT
    • Production and removal remain relatively balanced, maintaining lactate at lower steady levels.

Energy systems

  • HIIT
    • Heavily relies on both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems during the intense intervals.
  • CMIT
    • Primarily uses the aerobic energy system throughout the session.

Muscle fibre recruitment

  • HIIT
    • Activates both slow-twitch and fast-twitch muscle fibres during high-intensity intervals
  • CMIT
    • Predominantly recruits slow-twitch, fatigue-resistant fibres.

Recovery patterns

  • HIIT
    • The body requires longer to return to resting levels due to greater physiological disruption
  • CMIT
    • Typically occurs more quickly since physiological systems weren’t pushed to their limits.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 315

Analyse the relationship between exercise intensity and the immediate responses of heart rate, stroke volume, and cardiac output during a training session.   (6 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

Heart rate response:

  • At the beginning of training, heart rate increases rapidly from resting levels as the body immediately responds to the demand for increased blood flow to working muscles.
  • As exercise intensity increases from light to moderate, heart rate continues to rise in proportion to the intensity of the exercise to deliver more oxygen to muscles that need it.
  • At high training intensities, heart rate approaches its maximum, with the rate of increase slowing as it nears the individual’s maximum heart rate.

Stroke volume response:

  • When training begins, stroke volume increases from resting levels as more blood returns to the heart and the heart contracts more forcefully.
  • As intensity increases to moderate levels, stroke volume continues to increase due to stronger heart contractions and greater venous return from active muscles.
  • At high training intensities, stroke volume typically levels off and may even slightly decrease when heart rate becomes very high, limiting the time for the heart to fill between beats.

Cardiac output response:

  • Cardiac output, which is heart rate multiplied by stroke volume, increases progressively with exercise intensity to meet the increasing oxygen demands of working muscles.
  •  
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Heart rate response:

  • At the beginning of training, heart rate increases rapidly from resting levels as the body immediately responds to the demand for increased blood flow to working muscles.
  • As exercise intensity increases from light to moderate, heart rate continues to rise in proportion to the intensity of the exercise to deliver more oxygen to muscles that need it.
  • At high training intensities, heart rate approaches its maximum, with the rate of increase slowing as it nears the individual’s maximum heart rate.

Stroke volume response:

  • When training begins, stroke volume increases from resting levels as more blood returns to the heart and the heart contracts more forcefully.
  • As intensity increases to moderate levels, stroke volume continues to increase due to stronger heart contractions and greater venous return from active muscles.
  • At high training intensities, stroke volume typically levels off and may even slightly decrease when heart rate becomes very high, limiting the time for the heart to fill between beats.

Cardiac output response:

  • Cardiac output, which is heart rate multiplied by stroke volume, increases progressively with exercise intensity to meet the increasing oxygen demands of working muscles.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 314

Explain how immediate cardiac responses differ between resistance training and endurance training.   (6 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer 

Heart rate response:

  • Endurance training increases heart rate to a steady elevated level. This occurs because continuous oxygen demand requires sustained cardiac work.
  • Resistance training causes heart rate spikes during sets. This happens due to intense muscular effort followed by recovery periods between set.

Stroke volume changes:

  • Endurance training produces sustained stroke volume increases throughout the session. As a result, consistent oxygen delivery supports continuous muscle activity.
  • Resistance training creates temporary stroke volume increases during lifting. This is because muscle contractions affect venous return intermittently.

Blood pressure:

  • Resistance training causes greater blood pressure increases than endurance training. This occurs when muscles contract forcefully and compress blood vessels during lifting phases.

Cardiac output patterns:

  • Resistance training produces varying cardiac output with peaks and valleys. Therefore, oxygen delivery fluctuates between work and rest intervals.
  • Endurance training maintains elevated cardiac output consistently. This enables steady oxygen supply for sustained aerobic metabolism.

Venous return:

  • Resistance training may temporarily restrict blood flow. This happens because intense muscle contractions compress veins during lifting.
  • Endurance training promotes continuous venous return. Consequently, rhythmic muscle contractions assist blood flow back to the heart.

Recovery between efforts:

  • Resistance training allows partial cardiac recovery between sets. This results in decreased heart rate and blood pressure during rest intervals.
  • Endurance training requires continuous cardiac work. Therefore, minimal recovery occurs during the activity.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Heart rate response:

  • Endurance training increases heart rate to a steady elevated level. This occurs because continuous oxygen demand requires sustained cardiac work.
  • Resistance training causes heart rate spikes during sets. This happens due to intense muscular effort followed by recovery periods between set.

Stroke volume changes:

  • Endurance training produces sustained stroke volume increases throughout the session. As a result, consistent oxygen delivery supports continuous muscle activity.
  • Resistance training creates temporary stroke volume increases during lifting. This is because muscle contractions affect venous return intermittently.

Blood pressure:

  • Resistance training causes greater blood pressure increases than endurance training. This occurs when muscles contract forcefully and compress blood vessels during lifting phases.

Cardiac output patterns:

  • Resistance training produces varying cardiac output with peaks and valleys. Therefore, oxygen delivery fluctuates between work and rest intervals.
  • Endurance training maintains elevated cardiac output consistently. This enables steady oxygen supply for sustained aerobic metabolism.

Venous return:

  • Resistance training may temporarily restrict blood flow. This happens because intense muscle contractions compress veins during lifting.
  • Endurance training promotes continuous venous return. Consequently, rhythmic muscle contractions assist blood flow back to the heart.

Recovery between efforts:

  • Resistance training allows partial cardiac recovery between sets. This results in decreased heart rate and blood pressure during rest intervals.
  • Endurance training requires continuous cardiac work. Therefore, minimal recovery occurs during the activity.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 311

Outline TWO immediate cardiac responses to a training session.   (3 marks)

Show Answers Only

Sample Answer – Any 2 of the following

  • Heart rate increases immediately when training begins, causing the heart to beat faster to deliver more oxygen to working muscles.
  • Stroke volume increases during training, meaning more blood is pumped out of the heart with each beat.
  • Cardiac output (amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute) increases during training to supply more blood to muscles that are being used.
Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer – Any 2 of the following

  • Heart rate increases immediately when training begins, causing the heart to beat faster to deliver more oxygen to working muscles.
  • Stroke volume increases during training, meaning more blood is pumped out of the heart with each beat.
  • Cardiac output (amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute) increases during training to supply more blood to muscles that are being used.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 308 MC

The table shows physiological data collected from an athlete during a training session.

\begin{array}{|c|c|c|c|}
\hline \textbf{Time} & \textbf{Heart Rate} & \textbf{Stroke Volume} & \textbf{Cardiac Output} \\
 \textbf{(minutes)} & \textbf{(bpm)} & \textbf{(mL)} & \textbf{(L/min)} \\
\hline 0 \text{ (at rest)} & 70 & 70 & 4.9 \\
\hline 5 & 120 & 100 & 12.0 \\
\hline 10 & 150 & 110 & 16.5 \\
\hline 15 &160 & 110 & 17.6 \\
\hline \end{array}

Which statement best explains the relationship between these physiological responses during training?

  1. Heart rate and stroke volume decrease at the same rate during exercise
  2. Cardiac output increases mainly due to increases in stroke volume
  3. Heart rate continues to increase throughout exercise while stroke volume plateaus
  4. Cardiac output decreases as heart rate increases during training
Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution
  • C is correct: HR increases throughout while SV plateaus at 110mL

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Both increase not decrease during exercise
  • B is incorrect: Later increases mainly from HR not SV
  • D is incorrect: Cardiac output increases, not decreases, as heart rate increases