Energy continuum

Question 1

What does the energy systems operate as?

Answer 1

A continuum

The energy systems do not operate separately but rather as a continuum.

Question 2

What determines the most appropriate energy system?

Answer 2

Intensity and duration of the activity

The energy system that is most appropriate depends on these factors.

Question 3

What is the dominant energy system contribution for very high intensity activities lasting less than 10 seconds?

Answer 3

ATP/ATP-PC

Examples include athletic jumps, throws, and sprints.

Question 4

What is the dominant energy system contribution for high intensity activities lasting 10 seconds to 3 minutes?

Answer 4

Glycolytic System

Examples include 400m, 200m, and competitive racquet sports.

Question 5

What is the dominant energy system contribution for moderate-low intensity activities lasting more than 3 minutes?

Answer 5

Aerobic System

Examples include marathons, triathlons, and jogging.

Question 6

What is the definition of the Energy Continuum?

Answer 6

The relative contribution of each energy system to physical activity

This concept highlights how different energy systems work together during physical activities.

Question 7

What type of exercise is more energy demanding: intermittent or continuous?

Answer 7

Intermittent exercise

Intermittent exercise involves alternating intensity, such as running, walking, sprinting, and jogging.

Question 8

What is the term for the point at which a performer’s dominant energy system switches to another?

Answer 8

Threshold

This term indicates a change in the dominant energy system during activity.

Question 9

What happens when the intensity of exercise is too high?

Answer 9

The dominant energy system may switch or become inefficient

High intensity can lead to a change in energy system usage.

Question 10

During which stage of a cyclist’s race is the ATP/ATP-PC system predominantly used?

Answer 10

Sprint for the finish line

This stage requires short bursts of energy.

Question 11

During which stage of a cyclist’s race is the Aerobic System predominantly used?

Answer 11

Maintaining steady pace mid race

This stage requires sustained energy over a longer duration.

Question 12

Fill in the blank: The __________ energy system is primarily used during a hill climb.

Answer 12

Lactic Acid

This system supports high-intensity efforts over a moderate duration.

Question 13

What are the three energy systems used during a cyclist’s race?

Answer 13

• ATP-PC
• Lactic Acid
• Aerobic

These systems are used at different stages of the race based on intensity and duration.