1.4 - Environmental effects on the body systems Flashcards
Describe the effects of high altitude exposure on performance in aerobic and anaerobic activities
- Decreased pp of O2 at altitude (air thinner)
- increased breathing frequency
- decreased blood/plasma volume
- decreased stroke volume
- decreased maximal cardiac output
- reduced pressure gradient so less oxygen to muscles
- improved anaerobic exercise
- lower performance in aerobic activities
Explain what is meant by the term “cardiovascular drift” (4 marks)
Hot climate
- cardiovasular drift is the potential side affect
- increased heart rate at given intensity of sub maximal exercise
- due to water loss there is reduced plasma volume
- reduced stroke volume
- in order to maintain cardiac output heart rate must increase
Explain the process of thermoregulation
optimum body temp is 37 degrees C
1- Thermoregulation is the process of maintaining this internal core temp
2- thermo receptors detect change in temperature and relay to brain
3- brain sends nerve impulses to the blood vessels positioned near the surface of the skin (vasodilate) increases blood flow to skin so heat can be lost through sweat (cooling)
Explain how a performer might plan to optimise performance in their event which is due to take place in a hot climate (5 marks) - preventative measures
PRE COMP (lots of fluids 2-3l per day)
- 7-14 days acclimatisation at higher temp levels
means that increased blood plasma levels, decrease loss of electrolytes through sweat and decrease HR at all levels of exertion
DURING / POST
- wear suitable clothing
- water spray
- rehydrate
- using cooling aids
- drink lots of fluids