P1 8. Fast and Slow Twitch Muscle Fibres Flashcards
what is fast twitch for
running fast
what is slow twitch for
endurance events
what is Type 1
known as slow twitch muscle fibre
suited to low intensity aerobic exercise such as marathon running
used for a long time without fatigue
characteristics of Type 1
work aerobically
low intensity long duration events
high resistance to fatigue
small levels of power
slow contraction speed
What is Type 2a (IIa)
known as fast twitch fibres
lengthy anaerobic work like 800m
improved through endurance training to increase resistance to fatigue
Type 2a characteristics
work anaerobically
contract quickly with force
high intensity short - mid duration
dynamic and fast paced activities (30sec-2mins)
low resistance to fatigue
high level of power and speed of contraction
what is Type 2x (IIx)
known as very fast twitch fibres
used in anaerobic work
can generate great amounts of force
fatigue quickly
sprinters and power athletes
Type 2x characteristics
work anaerobically
pure fast twitch fibres
contract very quickly with high force
explosive fibres with massive output
short high bursts of activity
fatigue very quickly
build lactic acid
100m runner
