LO5.

1 : Analyse the 3 different energy systems &

explain their contribution to different sports &
activities.

In this assignment I will analyse the following three energy

systems and how they effect variations of sports;
• ATP/PC
• Glycolitic
• Aerobic

google.com

ATP/PC system

“The energy that muscle fibres use comes from turning a molecule
called ‘adenosine triphosphate’ (ATP) into ‘adenosine diphosphate’
(ADP). An enzyme splits one of the three phosphate molecules from
ATP. This action releases chemical energy, which the muscle fibre
turns into mechanical energy.” (A-level Physical Education- D. Kirk,
D. Penney, R. Burgess, T. Gorley, C. Maynard)
The ATP/PC works for a duration of 0-10 seconds and works at a
high intensity, anaerobically. An example of this system used would
be, a jump to defend/receive the ball in Netball. However at sport in
general; Sprinters, heavy lifters, golfers, home run hitters all have to
engage their ATP-PC system to perform at a high level.

“ATP already present in the muscle is used and then reproduced

(recycled) by breaking down creatine phosphate (the same stuff
that’s sold over the counter also stores naturally in our muscles). It
flares up brilliantly and fleetingly and allows us to move big weights
or run really fast, and then it goes out.” (www.marksdailyapple.com)

The ATP-PCr energy system can operate with or without oxygen but
because it doesnt rely on the presence of oxygen it said to be
anaerobic. During the first 5 seconds of exercise regardless of
intensity, the ATP-PCr is relied on almost exclusively.
(www.sport-fitness-advisor.com)

Glycolitic system
Glycolysis literally means the breakdown (lysis) of glucose and
consists of a series of enzymatic reactions. Remember that the
carbohydrates we eat supply the body with glucose, which can be
stored as glycogen in the muscles or liver for later use.
(www.sport-fitness-advisor.com)
“Glycolysis provides ATP under conditions where there is
inadequate oxygen being supplied to the system.” (‘Swimming’
David L Costall et al 1992.) Unfortunately, this process is relatively
inefficient for competitive swimming, due to it providing only a
small (but essential) part of the ATP. This system is adapted to
activities ranging from 10 seconds – 1 minute.
 google.com
The glycolytic system supplements the ATP-PC system in providing
energy for highly intense muscular effort when the oxygen supply
is inadequate. However, the demands on the Glycolitic system for
swimming events ranging from 50-200m are high, causing muscle
lactic acid levels to rise. (Swimming’ David L Costall et al 1992.)
The high acid content of the muscle fibres triggers further
breakdown of glycogen and could possibly interfere with the
contractile process of the muscles.

In general, glycolysis is stimulated during intense muscle actions by

high concentrations of ADP, Pi, and ammonia, and by a slight
decrease in pH and AMP, all of which are signs of increased ATP
hydrolysis and a need for energy. In contrast, glycolysis is inhibited
by markedly lower pH, ATP, CP, citrate, and free fatty acids, which
are usually present at rest. (http://runscience.blogspot.com)

Aerobic system

The glycolytic system is used for continuous repetitions near

maximum intensity. In this nonoxidative state, glycogen is used to
produce ATP. Glucose is stored in your liver and muscles in the form
of glycogen and through various glycolytic pathways is converted to
energy when needed. (www.myfit.ca)
 google.com

In the presence of oxygen, aerobic energy production can generate

13 times more ATP than glycolysis. Aerobic metabolism is the
primary method of energy production during endurance events,
placing heavy demands on the athletes ability to deliver oxygen to
the exercising muscles. (Swimming’ David L Costall et al 1992.)
For example, 800m+ in athletics, or swimming events. This system
is essential in allowing the athlete to continue performing at a high
level, preventing fatigue allowing sufficient gas exchange to the
working muscles and back to the lungs. “This extra demand for
oxygen is met by an increase in the rate and depth of breathing and
an increase in blood supply due to increased heart rate.”
(http://www.eatatease.com)

Energy taken during the breakdown of food manufactures

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The energy required for exercise can
be obtained by burning food storeswith oxygen (obtained by
breathing). This aerobic system works by the breakdown of
carbohydrate, fatty acids and some amino acids. This system uses
slow twitch fibres and as it requires oxygen it can run for longer.
(http://www.eatatease.com)
 google.com

Aerobic workouts are often also known as ‘steady state’. This is

because, during them, the body’s energy demands are impartial by
energy supply. This allows us to constantly exercise – hence the
steady state. When the steady state is breached, for example, by
increasing our effort and using more energy, our body will change
the way it produces energy.

Whatever our sport, aerobic energy provides a base of fitness,

regardless of the specific energy system demands of our actual
sport. A good foundation will enable a sprinter (who relies
predominantly on the immediate anaerobic system) to recover more
quickly between training efforts or a football mid-fielder to sustain
the high energy output required over a match (football relies
particularly on the short-term anaerobic energy system).
(http://www.pponline.co.uk/)

Bibliography

(A-level Physical Education. David kirk, Dawn penney, Robin

burgess, Trish gorley, Colette Maynard. USA)

www.marksdailyapple.com

‘Swimming’ - David L Costall, Ernest W. Maglischo, Allen B.

Richardson 1992.

www.myfit.ca
http://runscience.blogspot.com

http://www.eatatease.com

http://www.pponline.co.uk/