Energy Systems
The systems in the body responsible for producing energy for muscular contractions during physical activity.
ATP-PC System
Also known as the alactic system; provides immediate energy for high-intensity, short-duration activities.
Lactic Acid System
Also known as anaerobic glycolysis; used for moderate- to high-intensity activities lasting 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
Aerobic System
Also known as the oxidative system; provides energy for low-intensity, long-duration activities.
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
The immediate energy source for all muscular contractions, composed of adenosine and three phosphate groups.
Phosphocreatine (PC)
Stored in muscles; used to rapidly regenerate ATP for immediate energy.
Anaerobic
A process that occurs without oxygen.
Glycogen
Stored form of glucose used as fuel for energy production.
Muscle Fatigue
Decreased ability of muscles to generate force due to lactic acid accumulation.
Krebs Cycle
A series of enzymatic reactions in the mitochondria that generates ATP, NADH, and FADH2 from pyruvate.
Electron Transport Chain (ETC)
A series of complexes in mitochondria where electron transfer occurs, producing a large amount of ATP.
High-Intensity Activities
Activities that rely heavily on the ATP-PC system for immediate energy.
Low-Intensity Activities
Activities that primarily utilize the aerobic system for sustained energy.
Moderate-Duration Activities
Activities lasting from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, mainly utilizing the lactic acid system.
Oxygen Availability
A critical factor determining whether anaerobic or aerobic pathways dominate in energy production.
VO2 Max
The maximum rate of oxygen consumption; an indicator of aerobic capacity.
Lactic Acid
The byproduct of anaerobic glycolysis; can lead to muscle fatigue.
Training Adaptations
Physiological changes in response to regular training, improving the efficiency of energy systems.
Mitochondrial Density
The number of mitochondria in a cell; higher density improves aerobic metabolism.
Phosphocreatine Stores
Limited reserves in muscles, which deplete quickly (within 10-15 seconds) during high-intensity efforts.
Anaerobic Glycolysis
The breakdown of glucose without oxygen, producing ATP and lactic acid.
Explosive Movements
Activities requiring immediate energy, typically generated by the ATP-PC system.
Sprinting
An example of a sport that predominantly relies on the ATP-PC system.
Endurance Sports
Sports like marathon running and cycling that rely primarily on the aerobic system.
Energy System Interplay
The collaboration of different energy systems during various types and intensities of exercise.
Fitness Level
A factor influencing energy system usage; trained athletes utilize oxygen more efficiently.
Carbohydrates
One of the fuel sources for aerobic metabolism; can be converted to ATP.
Fats
Another fuel source for the aerobic system; used in prolonged exercise.
Protein
Occasionally used as a fuel source in the aerobic system, especially during prolonged exercise.
Fatigue and Discomfort
Common consequences of lactic acid buildup during high-intensity activities.
Enzyme Activity
The increase in specific enzyme levels through training that enhances ATP production.
Short Bursts of Activity
Activities lasting less than 10 seconds primarily utilizing the ATP-PC system.
Moderate to High Intensity
Activities typically relying on the lactic acid system for energy.
Tailored Training Programs
Training designed to develop the dominant energy system required for specific sports.
Immediate Energy Production
The rapid generation of ATP necessary for quick, high-intensity efforts.
Explosive Strength
Strength needed for activities like weightlifting, which benefits from the ATP-PC system.
Endurance Training
Training aimed at improving the efficiency of the aerobic system.
Recovery Time
Time needed to replenish energy stores after high-intensity exercise.
Energy Consumption
The process of utilizing stored energy sources for physical activity.
Fatigue Threshold
The point at which muscle fatigue begins during high-intensity activity.
ATP Resynthesis
The process of creating ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, mainly using energy released from PC.