Enhancing the performance of the cardiorespiratory system Flashcards
(12 cards)
How can regular aerobic exercise improve overall cardiorespiratory functions?
Regular aerobic exercise means you can pump more blood with each heart beat. This also allows blood flow to your lungs and results in greater delivery of oxygen into the blood.
What is cardiac hypertrophy? (Cardiovascular system)
An increase in the size and strength of the left ventricle of the heart leads to improved contractability of the heart, allowing more blood pumped around the body.
What is altitude training?
Altitude training is permitted training method that involves training at greater levels greater than 1500m above sea level. Induces physiological changes that enhance the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. The body must adapt (acclimatize) to this reduced oxygen level.
What increases during altitude training?
Number of capillaries: greater distribution of blood, therefore more oxygen to the muscles.
Production of EPO: Increase stimulation of red blood cells.
Production of red blood cells and hemoglobin: Greater capacity to carry oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs.
What are hypoxic chambers and what are they used for?
They are a specifically designed space to stimulate altitude. They are used as preparation for competition at high altitude.
What are some potential harms from altitude?
Weight loss weakened immune system, extreme fatigue, severally reduced intensity to exercise, increased blood viscosity (thickening).
What is EPO?
Is an illegal substance secreted by the kidneys. Stimulates the production of red blood cells in bone marrow. A synthetic form of EPO exists. Endurance athletes may seek to use this in order to gain advantage over their competitors.
What are some performance benefits of EPO?
There is more hemoglobin available for O2 to attach to and deliver to working muscles. This increases better O2 transportation and higher rate energy production. Hence, better aerobic endurance and Vo2 max.
What are some potential harms of EPO?
Increases the amount of red blood cells past the normal levels. Increase viscosity of the blood, blood clots and increases risk of heart and stroke.
What are Beta blockers?
Are drugs that build adrenaline hormones from binding to receptors on nerves, reducing the effect on the heart and blood vessels. Prescribed legally for people with heart conditions. Prohibited by WADA.
What the performance benefits of Beta Blockers?
Can reduce pre-competition anxiety, lower the heart rate and reduce body tremors. Good for laser focus activities.
What are some potential harms of Beta blockers?
Hypotension (low blood pressure) decreased heart rate, cardiac failure, tiredness, decreased capacity in endurance sports.
