Lectures Weeks 5-10

VO2 Max

The maximum rate of oxygen consumption measured during incremental exercise.

Factors affecting VO2 max

Increased stroke volume, improved arteriovenous O2 difference, and higher muscle blood flow.

Arteriovenous O2 Difference

The difference in oxygen content between arterial and venous blood; increases with endurance training.

Detraining Effects

Decline in VO2 max and muscle adaptations resulting from cessation of training.

Mitochondrial Adaptations

Increased number of mitochondria in muscle cells due to endurance training, leading to improved aerobic metabolism.

Lactate Production

The process of converting pyruvate into lactate; reduced with endurance training.

Sarcopenia

Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, typically beginning after age 50.

Exercise Economy

The amount of energy expended at a given exercise intensity; typically improved with training.

Concurrent Training

A training regimen that includes both strength and endurance training.

Open Window Theory

The concept that high-intensity exercise temporarily suppresses immune function.

Immune Senescence

The decline in immune function associated with aging.

Respiratory Quotient (RQ)

The ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed during metabolism.

Neural Adaptations

Improvements in strength and performance resulting from enhanced neural function, not muscle growth.

Energy Expenditure

The total amount of energy used by the body, influenced by physical activity.

VO2 Max Formula

VO2 max = HR max × SV max × (a-vO2) max.

Plateau Effect

The phenomenon where VO2 max levels off with training, reflecting maximal aerobic capacity.

Deliberate Practice

A focused, intentional approach to training aimed at improving performance.

Active Grandparent Hypothesis

The theory that older adults who remain physically active may contribute to longevity.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A way of life with little or no physical activity, linked to increased health risks.

Energy Efficiency of Bipedalism

The advantageous biomechanical aspect of walking on two legs that conserves energy during locomotion.

Training Adaptation

Physiological and structural changes in the body resulting from repeated exercise training.

Fat Metabolism

The process of oxidizing fatty acids for energy, improved with endurance training.