Questions and Answers
Define aerobic capacity.
The ability to take in, transport and use oxygen to sustain prolonged periods of aerobic/sub-maximal work.
What is aerobic capacity dependent on? (Select all that apply)
Define VO2 Max.
The highest rate of oxygen consumption attainable during maximal/exhaustive work.
How does individual physiological makeup affect VO2 Max?
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How does heredity/genetics affect VO2 Max?
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Explain how aerobic training affects VO2 Max.
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Define a-VO2 diff.
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How does age affect VO2 Max?
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What are the two main causes of VO2 reduction due to an increase in age? (Select all that apply)
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Explain how gender affects VO2 Max.
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Explain how a woman's VO2 Max is lower than men's due to their smaller body size.
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Why is it important to measure aerobic capacity?
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Study Notes
Aerobic Capacity
- Refers to the ability to intake, transport, and use oxygen for prolonged aerobic/sub-maximal activities.
Factors Influencing Aerobic Capacity
- Dependent on the respiratory system (oxygen consumption), heart (oxygen transport), vascular system (oxygen transport), and muscle cells (oxygen utilization).
VO2 Max
- Represents the maximum rate of oxygen consumption achieved during maximal efforts.
Individual Physiological Makeup and VO2 Max
- VO2 Max relates closely to respiratory efficiency, heart and circulatory system function, and muscle efficiency.
- Higher VO2 Max allows for increased work capacity just below anaerobic thresholds, delaying fatigue.
Heredity and VO2 Max
- Genetic factors can account for up to 50% of VO2 Max variation, impacting muscle fiber composition (Type I and Type IIa fibers).
- Individual responses to training also differ due to genetics, influencing potential VO2 Max improvements, which are maximized through focused training.
Aerobic Training and VO2 Max
- Tailored aerobic training enhances VO2 Max due to physiological adaptations over 8 to 19 months of endurance training.
- Specific training related to an athlete's sport and needs leads to greater potential improvements.
a-VO2 Diff
- The a-VO2 diff indicates the difference between the oxygen percentage in consumed blood and exhaled air.
- An increased a-VO2 diff signifies more oxygen utilized, decreasing the percentage exhaled.
Age and VO2 Max
- VO2 Max tends to decrease about 1% annually with aging due to reduced oxygen transport efficiency and lower a-VO2 diff.
- Age at which VO2 Max declines varies based on individual training history and adaptation.
Causes for VO2 Reduction with Age
- Cardiovascular: Decrease in maximum heart rate, cardiac output, stroke volume, and muscle blood circulation resulting from decreased left ventricular function.
- Respiratory: Reduced lung volumes (e.g., max minute ventilation) due to declining elasticity of lung tissues.
Gender Differences in VO2 Max
- Women typically have VO2 Max values that are 20-25% lower than men's, with averages of 60-70 ml/kg/min for women and 70-75 ml/kg/min for men.
- Women's higher body fat percentage can further impact VO2 Max when adjusted for body mass.
Size Impact on Women's VO2 Max
- Smaller lung volumes result in reduced oxygen intake.
- Smaller heart size leads to higher resting heart rates and lower stroke volume/cardiac output.
- Lower hemoglobin levels reduce blood oxygen transport.
Importance of Measuring Aerobic Capacity
- Monitoring aerobic capacity is crucial for ensuring training intensity aligns with individual capabilities.
- Indirect tests like PWC 170 and MSFT estimate VO2 Max from performances, though direct testing is more precise.
- Practicality of these tests enables regular retesting to track progress effectively.
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Description
Test your knowledge on aerobic capacity and its components with these flashcards. Learn about definitions, factors affecting aerobic capacity, and the concept of VO2 Max. Perfect for students and fitness enthusiasts alike!
