7.2- Altitude and heat Flashcards
Definition of altitude
the height/ elevation of an area above sea level
Why must athletes prepare for differing environmental conditions
differing environmental conditions affect efficiency of cardiovascular, respiratory systems
-this can affect performance & health of athletes
What is BAROMETRIC PRESSURE ?
the PRESSURE exerted by the earth’s ATMOSPHERE at any given point
What happens at high altitude to oxygen
rate of O2 diffusion decreases = reducing Hb saturation = poor O2 transportation
What are the consequences of altitude ?
- breathing frequency increase
- blood volume decreases
- SV decrease -> ^ HR
- maximal HR, SV, Q decrease
What is the ultimate outcome of the effects of altitude ?
- reduced aerobic capacity and VO2 Max
- increased lactic acid production
- early fatigue
What is ACCLIMATISATION ?
gradual ADAPTATION to a CHANGE in the ENVIRONMENT
What are the 4 benefits of acclimatisation ?
- release of erythropoietin -> ^ red blood cell production
-breathing rate, ventilation stabilise
- SV and Q reduce
-altitude sickness = reduced
What is the normal body temperature ?
37oC
What is THERMOREGULATION ?
process of MAINTAINING internal core temperature
What are THERMORECEPTORS ?
SENSORY RECEPTORS which sense a CHANGE in temperature and RELAY information to the brain
What is DEHYDRATION ?
loss of WATER in BODY TISSUE, largely caused by SWEATING
What happens when core temp rises ?
metabolic heat is transported by CIRCULATING BLOOD to the surface of the skin for EVAPORATION (sweat)
How does low humidity affect sweating ?
increases sweating
Why is sweating beneficial for the body when hot?
-has cooling effect on body
-it removes excess heat quickly