Ergogenic aids

Question 1

Compare creatine and bicarbonate as ergogenic aids to sports performance. (4 marks)

Answer 1

Creatine helps to increase stores of phosphocreatine andbicarbonate increases buffering of lactic acid
Creatine increases maximum strengthandbicarbonate increases strength endurance
Both are legal
Both are nutritional aids
Both have similar side-effects or can cause stomach cramps / diarrhoea

Question 2

Describe intermittent hypoxic training (IHT). Outlineonebenefit andonerisk of intermittent hypoxic training. (4 marks)

Answer 2

Intervals of breathing air low in oxygenandnormal air
Using a mask to deliver hypoxic air
Work interval last several minutes or sessions last from 15 to 90 minutes
Training can last from 4 to 8 weeks
(Benefit) Increase in EPO / red blood cells
(Risk) Increased fatigue

Question 3

Identifyonepharmacological aid that would enhance performance in weight lifting and describeonenegative side-effect of this pharmacological aid. (2)

Answer 3

Anabolic steroid
Mood swings
Human growth hormone
Abnormal muscle/bone growth

Question 4

Name a sport where performers might use anabolic steroids to enhance their performance (1)

Answer 4

Sprinting/athletics throwing or jumping/ rugby/weightlifting

Question 5

Outline how blood doping is carried out, and giveonephysiological benefit andonerisk involved. (3)

Answer 5

Blood isremovedfrom athlete, stored and re-injectedinto the athlete 4 weeks later
benefit: increased haemoglobin
risk: Infections, increased blood viscosity

Question 6

Explain why cooling aids are used as a method of improving performance and helping recovery. (4)

Answer 6

Cooling aids can reduce temperature or sustain exercise for longer in hot environment
Ice can be used to treat injuries by reducing pain
Cooling aids can be used to reduce swelling Reduces DOMS
Using cooling aids reduces thermal strain of competing in warm climates to help performance

Question 7

Give an example ofonecooling aid.

Answer 7

Ice or ice packs
Ice baths
Fan cooling
Cold water spraying
Cooling jacket

Question 8

Give the positives of using cooling aids as a means of performance enhancement

Answer 8

Reduce temperature
Reduce thermal strain
Reduce cardiovascular drift
Causes vasoconstrictiontoreduce blood flow
Treat injuries to reduce pain
After use vasodilationtoaid healing

Question 9

Give the negatives of using cooling aids as a means of performance enhancement

Answer 9

Hard to perceive exercise intensity
Can mask injuries
Can cause (ice) burns
Can be dangerous for performers with heart conditions