smc-5532-15-Cardiac output

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 362

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

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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.

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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)

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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

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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:

Decreased blood pressure
Increased respiratory rate
Increased heart rate and stroke volume
Decreased peripheral resistance

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\(C\)

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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 356 MC

Which statement correctly describes the immediate physiological response to aerobic training?

Decreased heart rate and increased stroke volume
Increased heart rate and cardiac output
Decreased ventilation rate and blood lactate levels
Increased stroke volume and decreased cardiac output

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\(B\)

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B is correct: During aerobic training, heart rate and cardiac output both increase immediately to supply working muscles with more oxygen.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Heart rate increases not decreases during exercise.
C is incorrect: Ventilation rate increases (not decreases) during aerobic exercise.
D is incorrect: Both stroke volume and cardiac output increase during exercise.

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.

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

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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)

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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

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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 345

Evaluate how cardiac output interacts with ventilation rate and lactate levels as immediate physiological responses during a high-intensity training session. (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

Evaluation Statement:

The interaction between cardiac output, ventilation rate and lactate levels proves highly effective in meeting high-intensity exercise demands.
These systems work together to maintain performance despite metabolic stress.

Criterion 1 – System Coordination Effectiveness:

Evidence indicates that cardiac output increases coordinate strongly with ventilation rate rises. Both systems respond immediately to exercise demands.
Synchronisation effectively delivers oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems work in harmony.
Rising lactate levels trigger respiratory compensation, demonstrating excellent integrated responses. Increased ventilation helps buffer accumulating acid.
The systems achieve significant mutual support during intense exercise. Each component enhances the effectiveness of the others.
Cardiac output provides the transport while ventilation supplies the oxygen. Lactate levels signal the need for increased respiratory effort.

Criterion 2 – Performance Maintenance:

The interactions partially fulfill performance needs as exercise continues. Initial responses meet demands effectively.
Cardiac output sustains oxygen delivery throughout high-intensity work. Elevated ventilation attempts to buffer increasing acidity from lactate accumulation.
However, limitations appear when lactate exceeds clearance capacity. The buffering system becomes overwhelmed at extreme intensities.
Performance maintenance proves moderately successful in delaying fatigue. Complete prevention remains impossible at sustained high intensities.
Recovery between intervals allows partial system restoration. Brief rest periods enable continued high-intensity efforts.

Final Evaluation:

The three systems demonstrate highly effective initial coordination. Integration allows remarkable performance capacity.
Limitations emerge as intensity continues and lactate overwhelms buffering capacity. Physiological constraints eventually dominate.
Despite these constraints, the integrated response proves largely successful. Human performance reaches impressive levels through system cooperation.
The systems work optimally within physiological limits to support high-intensity performance. Overall effectiveness remains substantial.

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Sample Answer

Evaluation Statement:

The interaction between cardiac output, ventilation rate and lactate levels proves highly effective in meeting high-intensity exercise demands.
These systems work together to maintain performance despite metabolic stress.

Criterion 1 – System Coordination Effectiveness:

Evidence indicates that cardiac output increases coordinate strongly with ventilation rate rises. Both systems respond immediately to exercise demands.
Synchronisation effectively delivers oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems work in harmony.
Rising lactate levels trigger respiratory compensation, demonstrating excellent integrated responses. Increased ventilation helps buffer accumulating acid.
The systems achieve significant mutual support during intense exercise. Each component enhances the effectiveness of the others.
Cardiac output provides the transport while ventilation supplies the oxygen. Lactate levels signal the need for increased respiratory effort.

Criterion 2 – Performance Maintenance:

The interactions partially fulfill performance needs as exercise continues. Initial responses meet demands effectively.
Cardiac output sustains oxygen delivery throughout high-intensity work. Elevated ventilation attempts to buffer increasing acidity from lactate accumulation.
However, limitations appear when lactate exceeds clearance capacity. The buffering system becomes overwhelmed at extreme intensities.
Performance maintenance proves moderately successful in delaying fatigue. Complete prevention remains impossible at sustained high intensities.
Recovery between intervals allows partial system restoration. Brief rest periods enable continued high-intensity efforts.

Final Evaluation:

The three systems demonstrate highly effective initial coordination. Integration allows remarkable performance capacity.
Limitations emerge as intensity continues and lactate overwhelms buffering capacity. Physiological constraints eventually dominate.
Despite these constraints, the integrated response proves largely successful. Human performance reaches impressive levels through system cooperation.
The systems work optimally within physiological limits to support high-intensity performance. Overall effectiveness remains substantial.

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)

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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

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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 343

Compare the immediate cardiac output response during high-intensity interval training with steady-state aerobic training. (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

Similarities:

Both training methods increase cardiac output above resting levels.
Both responses result from increases in heart rate and stroke volume.
Both deliver increased oxygen to working muscles.
Both achieve significantly elevated cardiac output in trained individuals.

Differences:

Steady-state aerobic training produces gradual cardiac output increases. These stabilise at sustainable levels throughout exercise.
HIIT causes rapid cardiac output spikes during work intervals. Partial recovery occurs between intervals.
Steady-state maintains consistent cardiac output throughout exercise duration. This allows efficient oxygen delivery.
HIIT creates fluctuating cardiac output between work and recovery periods. Peak demands exceed steady-state levels.
Steady-state allows the cardiovascular system to reach equilibrium. HIIT repeatedly stresses the system without achieving steady state.
HIIT produces greater cardiovascular variability and higher peak demands than steady-state training.

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Sample Answer

Similarities:

Both training methods increase cardiac output above resting levels.
Both responses result from increases in heart rate and stroke volume.
Both deliver increased oxygen to working muscles.
Both achieve significantly elevated cardiac output in trained individuals.

Differences:

Steady-state aerobic training produces gradual cardiac output increases. These stabilise at sustainable levels throughout exercise.
HIIT causes rapid cardiac output spikes during work intervals. Partial recovery occurs between intervals.
Steady-state maintains consistent cardiac output throughout exercise duration. This allows efficient oxygen delivery.
HIIT creates fluctuating cardiac output between work and recovery periods. Peak demands exceed steady-state levels.
Steady-state allows the cardiovascular system to reach equilibrium. HIIT repeatedly stresses the system without achieving steady state.
HIIT produces greater cardiovascular variability and higher peak demands than steady-state training.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 342

Describe how cardiac output changes during a moderate aerobic training session and explain its relationship to oxygen delivery to muscles. (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

Cardiac output increases immediately from 5 L/min at rest to 15-20 L/min during moderate aerobic training.
Heart rate rises from 70 bpm to 120-150 bpm during exercise.
Stroke volume increases from 70 mL to 100-120 mL per beat.
This occurs because working muscles demand more oxygen for energy production.
The increased cardiac output enables greater oxygen delivery through increased blood flow.
Therefore, muscles receive sufficient oxygen to support aerobic ATP production, which allows sustained exercise performance.

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Sample Answer

Cardiac output increases immediately from 5 L/min at rest to 15-20 L/min during moderate aerobic training.
Heart rate rises from 70 bpm to 120-150 bpm during exercise.
Stroke volume increases from 70 mL to 100-120 mL per beat.
This occurs because working muscles demand more oxygen for energy production.
The increased cardiac output enables greater oxygen delivery through increased blood flow.
Therefore, muscles receive sufficient oxygen to support aerobic ATP production, which allows sustained exercise performance.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 341

Outline the immediate response of cardiac output during aerobic training. (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

Cardiac output increases immediately during aerobic training
This occurs due to an increase in both heart rate and stroke volume
The increase supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles
Cardiac output rises from approximately 5 L/min at rest to 15 L/min during moderate exercise

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Sample Answer

Cardiac output increases immediately during aerobic training
This occurs due to an increase in both heart rate and stroke volume
The increase supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles
Cardiac output rises from approximately 5 L/min at rest to 15 L/min during moderate exercise

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 340 MC

Which of the following statements correctly describes the immediate response of cardiac output during the initial phase of a moderate intensity training session?

Cardiac output decreases to maintain blood pressure at resting level
Cardiac output remains constant while heart rate and stroke volume adjust
Cardiac output increases due to an increase in both heart rate and stroke volume
Cardiac output increases solely due to increased stroke volume

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\(C\)

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C is correct: Cardiac output increases via both HR and SV increases

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Cardiac output increases, not decreases during exercise
B is incorrect: Cardiac output changes, not remains constant
D is incorrect: Both HR and SV increase, not SV alone

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 339 MC

During a moderate-intensity training session, a swimmer has a heart rate of 130 beats per minute and a stroke volume of 120 mL. What is her cardiac output during this exercise?

120 L/min
15.6 L/min
1.56 L/min
250 L/min

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\(B\)

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Consider Option B: 15.6 L/min

\(\text{Cardiac output}\)	\(=\text{Heart rate}\times\ \text{Stroke volume}\)
	\(=130\ \text{beats/min}\times 120\ \text{mL/beat}\)
	\(=15\,600\ \text{mL/min}\)
	\(=15.6\ \text{L/min}\)

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Failed to multiply HR and SV
C is incorrect: Decimal conversion error
D is incorrect: Added instead of multiplying values

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)

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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.

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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.

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)

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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.

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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 316

Evaluate how monitoring immediate physiological responses during different types of training sessions can be used to optimise individual training programs. (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

Heart rate

Monitoring during training provides immediate feedback about exercise intensity.
Allows athletes to train within specific heart rate zones that target improvements in either aerobic fitness or anaerobic capacity.
Monitoring how quickly heart rate returns to normal between exercise intervals helps identify an athlete’s recovery ability.
Can indicate when they need more rest to prevent excessive fatigue.

Breathing Rate

Observation helps identify when an athlete transitions from comfortable aerobic exercise to more challenging anaerobic work.
Allows coaches to design sessions that target specific energy systems.

Lactate levels

Measuring during training can determine an athlete’s lactate threshold.
Helps coaches set appropriate training intensities that improve the body’s ability to clear lactate during exercise.

Comparison to the same training

Comparison of heart rate response to the same training over time provides evidence of improvement.
A lower heart rate for the same exercise intensity indicates enhanced cardiovascular fitness.
Different athletes respond differently to the same training.
- Some might show rapid heart rate increases with minimal lactate buildup.
- Others might have the opposite response—highlighting the need for individualised training programs.

Physiological responses to different training

Monitoring across different types of training (such as intervals, continuous runs, or circuit training) helps identify which training methods are most effective for each individual athlete.

Tracking changes in responses

Tracking changes over a training season provides objective evidence of improvement or plateaus.
Allows coaches to modify training programs accordingly rather than following generic plans.

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Sample Answer

Heart rate

Monitoring during training provides immediate feedback about exercise intensity.
Allows athletes to train within specific heart rate zones that target improvements in either aerobic fitness or anaerobic capacity.
Monitoring how quickly heart rate returns to normal between exercise intervals helps identify an athlete’s recovery ability.
Can indicate when they need more rest to prevent excessive fatigue.

Breathing Rate

Observation helps identify when an athlete transitions from comfortable aerobic exercise to more challenging anaerobic work.
Allows coaches to design sessions that target specific energy systems.

Lactate levels

Measuring during training can determine an athlete’s lactate threshold.
Helps coaches set appropriate training intensities that improve the body’s ability to clear lactate during exercise.

Comparison to the same training

Comparison of heart rate response to the same training over time provides evidence of improvement.
A lower heart rate for the same exercise intensity indicates enhanced cardiovascular fitness.
Different athletes respond differently to the same training.
- Some might show rapid heart rate increases with minimal lactate buildup.
- Others might have the opposite response—highlighting the need for individualised training programs.

Physiological responses to different training

Monitoring across different types of training (such as intervals, continuous runs, or circuit training) helps identify which training methods are most effective for each individual athlete.

Tracking changes in responses

Tracking changes over a training season provides objective evidence of improvement or plateaus.
Allows coaches to modify training programs accordingly rather than following generic plans.

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)

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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)

--- 6 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

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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.

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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?

Heart rate and stroke volume decrease at the same rate during exercise
Cardiac output increases mainly due to increases in stroke volume
Heart rate continues to increase throughout exercise while stroke volume plateaus
Cardiac output decreases as heart rate increases during training

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\(C\)

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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