Firstly, what is energy? When referring to energy within the body, we called it ATP which stands for Adenosine Triphosphate. It is the body's 'energy currency.' Here's what it looks like:
So, our bodies need this ATP to power movement. But, did you know that our body's can theoretically provide energy indefinitely? They do this with 3 energy providing systems:
1. The ATP-PC System
Used for short, powerful bursts of exercise
Lasts <10 seconds
High Intensity
Example: 100m sprint
2. Anaerobic Glycolysis or Lactic Acid System
Used for medium length exercise that causes that burning feeling!
High Intensity
Lasts 30 seconds - 3 minutes
Examples: weight-lifting, circuit training, 400m race
3. Aerobic System
Used for long distance exercise
Lasts 3+ minutes up to indefinite
Low Intestity
Example: marathon, riding, swimming
Why is the Aerobic system "unlimited?"
It uses Oxygen
It takes longer to "warm up"
And with fuel and no injuries, theoretically it could continue indefinitely !
Lastly, our 3 energy systems work together! At the beginning of exercise, ALL 3 energy systems are providing ATP, just in difference proportions. They way they work together is called Energy System Continuum or Interplay. This diagram shows the dominant system over time.
Want to learn more? Check out all PE Buddy's videos https://www.youtube.com/c/PEBuddy/videos
Check out our website for more
Get teaching resources for this topic
Thanks legends!
Mr D, your online PE Buddy