Aerobic and Anaerobic Pathways - An Introduction To The Energy Systems
Aerobic and Anaerobic Pathways - An Introduction To The Energy Systems
Text Reference
1. Nelson Physical
Education VCE Units
1&2 – Chapter 3
.
Key Knowledge
Introduction to the characteristics of aerobic and anaerobic pathways (with or
without oxygen) and their contribution to movement and dominant fibre type
associated with each pathway.
Key Skills
Identify the dominant energy pathway utilised in a variety of aerobic or anaerobic
activities determined by the intensity and duration of the activity. Collect, analyse
and report on primary data related to responses to exercise and anaerobic and
aerobic pathways.
Food fuels and the three energy systems
1. Carbohydrates (CHO) –
Preferred source of fuel
during exercise (Glycogen)
2. Fat – Concentrated fuel
used during rest and Energy
prolonged sub-maximal
exercise.
3. Protein – Used for growth
and repair (Negligible use
during exercise)
VCE Physical Education - Unit 3
VCE Physical Education - Unit 3
Food fuels and the three energy systems
Rest (Aerobic)
Fat and glucose are the preferred fuels
During Exercise
1. Short duration / high intensity – Anaerobic systems used using carbohydrates.
2. Long duration / low intensity – Aerobic system using carbohydrates. However, fats
are used once glycogen stores are depleted.
Food fuels and the three energy systems
Low intensity
ATP requirements are met aerobically using the aerobic system.
High Intensity
Explosive movements require instant supply of ATP which can’t be met
aerobically, therefore the ATP-PC and lactic acid systems need to be used
anaerobically.
Aerobic Anaerobic
Intensity increases
Storage (Based on 80kg person) Carbohydrate rich diet;
Muscle glycogen – 400g Increases glycogen stores
Liver glycogen – 100g Glycogen is used in rebuilding
Intake of Carbohydrates depends on ATP
the intensity and duration of CHO preferred fuel over fats during
exercise bouts. exercise due to requiring less
Normal contribution to diet is 55- oxygen to release energy.
60% CHO Athletes need to be aware of their
Carbohydrate loading (80% CHO dietary intakes of CHO. Excess
intake) is used for endurance CHO is converted to fat.
activities.
Storage of fats At rest
Adipose tissue
50% of energy supplied by fats
Triglycerides
Oxygen demand is easily met to
(Broken down into free fatty acids)
Aerobic metabolism of fat is; burn fats
Slow as it requires more oxygen Benefits of fat
than CHOs. Large energy store
Adds stress to the oxygen Transport medium for fat soluble
transport system vitamins
ATP yield is much higher from fat Negative aspects of fat
(460 molecules) in comparison to Adverse health effects
glucose (36). Obesity, heart disease etc.
Role of protein (Amino acids) in the body;
Growth and repair
Speed up reactions in the body (Enzymes)
Produces hormones and antibodies
Protein and exercise
1. Not used as a fuel, therefore low priority.
2. Only used in extreme circumstances
3. Normal diet contains enough protein (15%).
Excess protein can lead to;
Less intake of CHO
Increase in fat intake from animal products
Increase in fluid waste
During prolonged endurance events
such as marathon running and
triathlons;
Body uses a combination of CHO and
fats.
Trained athletes are able to ‘spare’
glycogen and use free fatty acids.
Fats cannot be used alone as a fuel
(poor solubility in the blood).
‘Hitting the wall’ occurs when
glycogen stores are depleted. This is
called ‘hypoglycaemia’.