Understanding Fatigue and Performance

What is central fatigue primarily associated with?

• Muscle fibre depletion

• Neural transmission in the brain

• Lactic acid build-up

• Dehydration

Answer explanation

Central fatigue is primarily linked to neural transmission in the brain, affecting the communication between the brain and muscles, rather than muscle fiber depletion, lactic acid build-up, or dehydration.

Ava is training for a marathon and notices that she feels extremely tired during her long runs. Which of the following is a common cause of peripheral fatigue?

• Reduced motivation

• Decreased muscle glycogen

• Increased serotonin levels

• Mental stress

Answer explanation

Decreased muscle glycogen is a common cause of peripheral fatigue as it directly affects energy availability for muscle contractions, leading to fatigue during prolonged exercise.

During a long-distance race, how might central fatigue impact Arjun's physical performance?

• By increasing muscle strength

• By reducing cognitive function

• By impairing motor coordination

• By enhancing endurance

Answer explanation

Central fatigue impairs motor coordination, leading to decreased physical performance. This affects the ability to execute movements effectively, which is crucial for athletic performance.

Which mechanism is NOT typically involved in peripheral fatigue?

• Accumulation of metabolic by-products

• Depletion of neurotransmitters

• Muscle fibre damage

• Reduced blood flow to muscles

Answer explanation

Depletion of neurotransmitters is primarily associated with central fatigue, not peripheral fatigue. Peripheral fatigue typically involves metabolic by-products, muscle damage, and reduced blood flow.

What is a common symptom of mental fatigue?

• Increased physical strength

• Enhanced concentration

• Decreased alertness

• Improved memory

Answer explanation

Decreased alertness is a common symptom of mental fatigue, as it reflects the brain's reduced ability to focus and respond effectively. In contrast, increased strength, enhanced concentration, and improved memory are not associated with mental fatigue.

How can fatigue increase the risk of injury?

• By improving reaction time

• By enhancing muscle flexibility

• By reducing coordination and focus

• By increasing energy levels

Answer explanation

Fatigue impairs coordination and focus, making it harder to react appropriately to situations. This increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries, as the body cannot respond effectively to demands.

Which of the following is a method to recover from fatigue?

• Continuous exercise without breaks

• Adequate rest and sleep

• Increased caffeine intake

• Ignoring the symptoms

Answer explanation

Adequate rest and sleep are essential for recovery from fatigue, as they allow the body to repair and rejuvenate. Continuous exercise, increased caffeine, and ignoring symptoms can worsen fatigue.

Which neurotransmitter is often linked to central fatigue?

• Dopamine

• Serotonin

• Acetylcholine

• GABA

Answer explanation

Serotonin is often linked to central fatigue as it plays a role in mood regulation and energy levels. Increased serotonin can lead to feelings of tiredness, making it the correct choice in this context.

What is a potential effect of fatigue on mental performance?

• Improved decision-making

• Enhanced problem-solving skills

• Slower reaction times

• Increased creativity

Answer explanation

Fatigue negatively impacts mental performance, leading to slower reaction times. This can hinder quick decision-making and response, making it crucial to manage fatigue for optimal cognitive function.

Which of the following is NOT a factor in central fatigue?

• Brain neurotransmitter levels

• Muscle glycogen depletion

• Psychological stress

• Sleep deprivation

Answer explanation

Muscle glycogen depletion is primarily a peripheral factor affecting performance, while central fatigue is influenced by brain neurotransmitter levels, psychological stress, and sleep deprivation.