Nervous System Function & Structure/Interplay of Body Systems in Movement Flashcards
What is the primary function of the nervous system?
The nervous system is the control centre of our body, using electrical signals and chemicals to coordinate all our activities. It’s like a vast communication network with a central office (brain and spinal cord) and a network of cables (nerves) reaching throughout the body.
What is the difference between the Central Nervous System and the Peripheral Nervous System?
Location: CNS is enclosed within the skull and vertebral column, while the PNS extends throughout the body. Function: CNS processes information and initiates actions, while the PNS transmits sensory information to the CNS and carries motor commands from the CNS to the body. Structure: CNS is composed of the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS is made up of nerves and ganglia.
What is the name of the basic unit of the nervous system?
Neuron - this is the cell that transmits messages.
How does the nervous system support the body to move?
Sending signals: The brain sends signals through the spinal cord and nerves to muscles. Controlling muscle contractions: The signals cause muscles to contract, creating movement. Coordinating movements: The brain coordinates movements for balance, posture, and complex actions. Receiving sensory information: The nervous system receives sensory information from the body, allowing for adjustments and feedback during movement.
Provide a specific example of how the digestive, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems influence movement.
In endurance sports like cycling, the digestive system must provide adequate nutrients for energy production and muscle repair. The endocrine system regulates hormones that control metabolism and energy levels. The musculoskeletal system is crucial for generating power and endurance during cycling. Proper nutrition, hormone balance, and strong muscles are essential for optimal performance.
What are some preventative measures to avoid undue stress on the body?
Warm-up and cool-down: Prepare muscles for activity and promote recovery. Proper technique: Learn and practise correct form to avoid injury. Gradual progression: Increase intensity and duration of activity gradually. Listen to your body: Acknowledge fatigue and take breaks when needed. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise.
What is a common sports-related injury and how can it be treated and prevented?
Injury: Ankle Sprain. Cause: Twisting or rolling the ankle. Signs and Symptoms: Pain and swelling, difficulty walking or bearing weight, bruising. Treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Bracing or taping to support the ankle. Physical therapy to strengthen the ankle muscles and improve stability. Preventative Measures: Proper footwear, strengthening exercises, proprioception training, warm-up/cool down.
What are some signs of dehydration?
Thirst, dizziness, headache, fatigue, and decreased urine output.
How can first aid help with dehydration?
Replenish fluids by providing oral fluids like water or sports drinks.
Energy System: ATP-PCr (Anaerobic)
Fuel Source: Immediately available ATP and phosphocreatine (PC) stored in muscle cells. Efficiency: Very fast ATP production. Duration: Short bursts (8-12 seconds). Intensity: Maximal effort. Recovery: Up to 2 minutes for complete recovery, partially restored in 30 seconds. Fatigue Cause: Depletion of PC stores. Examples: 100m sprint, discus throw, high jump.
Energy System: Glycolytic (Lactic Acid)
Fuel Source: Carbohydrates (glucose) stored as glycogen in muscles and blood. Efficiency: Fast ATP production. Duration: 30 seconds to 3 minutes. Intensity: High intensity. Recovery: 30-60 minutes. Fatigue Cause: Buildup of pyruvic acid (H+ ions) in muscles. Examples: 200m sprint, 50m swim, repeated high-intensity activities in sports like tennis or rugby.
Energy System: Aerobic
Fuel Source: Carbohydrates, fats, and protein (sparingly). Efficiency: Efficient ATP production. Duration: Continuous for well over an hour (limited by glycogen stores). Intensity: Low to moderate intensity. Recovery: 12-48 hours. Fatigue Cause: Depletion of glycogen stores (hitting the wall). Examples: Long-distance running, swimming, cycling, marathons, team sports like soccer and netball.
Explain the interplay between energy systems during a mixed sport like triathlon.
Swimming: Primarily aerobic, but anaerobic systems contribute to initial bursts of speed. Cycling: Aerobic system dominates, with short bursts of anaerobic effort for hills or sprints. Running: A mix of aerobic and anaerobic systems, with aerobic dominance for most of the race and anaerobic bursts for hills or final sprints.
How does training influence the efficiency of energy systems?
Aerobic training: Improves aerobic capacity, allowing for longer sustained effort. Anaerobic training: Increases power and speed, enhances lactate tolerance. Interval training: Combines both aerobic and anaerobic training for improved overall performance.
Identify the dominant energy system for these activities: Soccer, Javelin throw, Bench press, 200m sprint.
Soccer: Aerobic (dominant), with bursts of anaerobic lactic acid system for sprints and tackles. Javelin throw: ATP-PCr (dominant) for initial explosive movement. Bench press: Anaerobic lactic acid system (dominant) for multiple repetitions at high intensity. 200m sprint: Anaerobic lactic acid system (dominant) for maximal effort.
Macronutrients and Energy Systems
Macronutrients for Athletes (endurance versus strength versus power)
Essential Micronutrients
Vitamins and minerals support energy and optimise energy production. B vitamins for energy production. Vitamin D for calcium absorption. Iron for oxygen delivery. Magnesium for muscle function. Sodium and potassium for electrolytes.
Post-Exercise Nutrition
Micronutrient Deficiencies
Nutrition for Sports - Compare aerobic and anaerobic sport macronutrient intake.
