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EPOC is excess post-exercise oxygen consumption - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 12 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 12
EPOC is excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. Explain how EPOC is caused. Give a sporting example when EPOC is likely to occur. Cause Example
Worked Solution & Example Answer:EPOC is excess post-exercise oxygen consumption - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 12 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how EPOC is caused.
Answer
EPOC, or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, is a physiological phenomenon that occurs after vigorous exercise.
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Caused due to vigorous (anaerobic) exercise: When an individual engages in high-intensity physical activity, the body may require more energy than can be produced aerobically. This results in a shift to anaerobic metabolism, leading to an oxygen debt.
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Lactic acid build-up: During this anaerobic process, lactic acid accumulates in the muscles. This byproduct contributes to fatigue and the need for post-exercise recovery.
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Need to maintain an elevated breathing rate: After exercise, the body continues to rely on an elevated breathing rate to restore oxygen levels. This process is crucial for clearing the accumulated lactic acid and replenishing depleted energy stores.
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To repay the oxygen debt: The elevated oxygen consumption post-exercise helps to restore normal metabolic functions and involves various biochemical processes, ensuring that the body returns to homeostasis.
Step 2
Give a sporting example when EPOC is likely to occur.
Answer
EPOC is likely to occur after activities such as:
- After sprinting: Sprinting requires short bursts of energy, leading to significant anaerobic effort and thus a marked EPOC afterward.
- After running 1500m: This distance, when run at a competitive pace, stresses the energy systems enough to lead to considerable EPOC.
- After a game of netball: This sport involves high-intensity sprints and sudden changes in movement, creating scenario conducive to significant EPOC.