Fuelling Energy Systems and Ergogenic Aids

These flashcards cover key concepts related to energy systems, dietary manipulation, and legal ergogenic aids relevant for athletic performance enhancement.

Carbohydrate Metabolism

The process by which carbohydrates are broken down to provide energy, primarily during moderate to high intensity exercise.

Glycogen Depletion

When glycogen stores are exhausted, leading to fatigue, often described as 'hitting the wall' during prolonged exercise.

Glycaemic Index (GI)

A ranking system for carbohydrates based on their effect on blood glucose levels, with high GI foods releasing energy quickly and low GI foods releasing energy slowly.

Carbohydrate Loading

A dietary strategy aimed at maximizing glycogen storage in the muscles before an endurance event through manipulation of carbohydrate intake.

Rebound Hypoglycaemia

A drop in blood glucose levels that can occur if carbohydrates are consumed too close to the start of physical activity, potentially leading to early fatigue.

Hypotonic Drinks

Drinks that have lower glucose levels than the bloodstream, beneficial for hydration during prolonged exercise.

Isotonic Drinks

Drinks that have equal levels of glucose as the bloodstream, helpful for hydration and energy replenishment during endurance events.

Hypertonic Drinks

Drinks with higher glucose levels than the bloodstream, which are not ideal for hydration alone but can help with energy recovery.

Ergogenic Aids

Substances or devices used to enhance athletic performance, including legal supplements like protein and caffeine.

Anabolic Steroids

Synthetic derivatives of testosterone that are used to increase muscle mass and strength but can have serious side effects.

Blood Doping

A method of enhancing athletic performance by increasing the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream, typically through transfusion.

Caffeine

A stimulant that enhances alertness and reduces fatigue, potentially improving performance in high-intensity events.

Protein Supplements

Products that provide additional protein to aid muscle repair and growth, including whey and casein proteins.

Recovery Window

The critical time period post-exercise (about 45 minutes) where the body is particularly efficient at replenishing glycogen stores.

Creatine

A substance that helps resynthesize ATP, often taken as a supplement to improve performance in high-intensity exercise.