Physiological Adaptations To Long Term Strength Training

Question 1

What are the three areas benefited by strength training

Answer 1

1. Muscle and connective tissue
2. Neural
3. Metabolic

Question 2

Name 2 muscle and connective tissue adaptations

Answer 2

1. Muscle hypertrophy
2. Muscle hyperplasia
3. Increased size of microfibrils
4. Increased strength of ligaments and tendons

Question 3

Name 2 neural adaptations

Answer 3

1. Increased recruitment of motor units containing FG and FOG muscle fibres
2. Increased force of contraction of the agonist muscle due to the stretch reflex being delayed and so there is a reduction in antagonist muscle inhabition

Question 4

Name 2 metabolic adaptations

Answer 4

1. Increased anaerobic fuel stores
2. Increased anaerobic enzyme activity
3. Improved buffering capacity - tolerance and removal of lactic acid using sodium bicarbonate