aerobic capacity + factors affecting aerobic capacity Flashcards
1
Q
what is aerobic capacity
A
The ability of the body to inspire,
transport and utilise oxygen to perform
sustained periods of aerobic activity.
2
Q
what is aerobic capacity dependent on
A
- the respiratory system
- the cardiovascular system
- the muscular system
3
Q
VO2 max
A
- the maximum volume of oxygen inspired, transported and utilized per minute during exhaustive exercise.
- An ability to work at a high % of VO2 max (below anaerobic threshold) is considered to be one of the best indicators of aerobic endurance
4
Q
what factors affect aerobic capacity
A
- Physiological make-up
- Age
- Gender
- Training
5
Q
how does physiological make-up affect aerobic capacity
A
- the greater the efficiency of the: respiratory system, cardiovascular system and muscle cells to inspire, transport and utilise oxygen, the higher the VO2 max
- Respiratory muscles and large lung capacities can inspire more air
- Increase in SV increases oxygen delivery to working muscles
- Increased haemoglobin content
- Capillarisation
- Higher % of SO fibres, rich in myoglobin + mitochondria
6
Q
how does age affect aerobic capacity
A
- From early 20s, VO2 max declines approximately 1% per year
- Loss of elasticity in the heart, blood vessels and lung tissue walls
7
Q
how does gender affect aerobic capacity
A
- females tend to have 15-30% (10 - 15 ml/kg/min) lower VO2 max than males from the same group
- Females have higher % body fat
- Females have smaller lung volumes
- Females have smaller SV and CO during maximal work
- Females have lower haemoglobin levels
8
Q
how does training affect aerobic capacity
A
- aerobic training will increase VO2 max by 10-20%. In ageing performers, aerobic training will maintain or reduce any decline in VO2 max
- Increased strength of respiratory muscles
- Increased HbO2 levels - haemoglobin
- Increased MbO2 levels - myoglobin
- Increased mitochondria
