Understanding Energy Systems in Training (CH 3)

May 12, 2025

Energy Systems Lecture by Dr. Jacob Goodin

Introduction

  • Presenter: Dr. Jacob Goodin, Professor of Kinesiology
  • Institution: Point Loma Nazarene University
  • Topic: Energy Systems
  • Objective: Understand energy systems for implementing training methods

Key Terms

  • Bioenergetics: Flow of energy in biological systems; conversion of macronutrients to ATP
  • Catabolism: Breakdown of molecules releasing energy (e.g., ATP to ADP)
  • Anabolism: Synthesis of larger molecules from smaller ones using energy
  • Exergonic Reactions: Energy-releasing reactions (e.g., ATP breakdown)
  • Endergonic Reactions: Reactions requiring energy
  • Metabolism: Total catabolic and anabolic reactions
  • Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP): Energy currency of the body

ATP and Hydrolysis

  • ATP structure: Adenine, ribose, triphosphate group
  • Hydrolysis: Breaking phosphate bonds to release energy
  • ADP and AMP: Further breakdown of ATP

Three Energy Systems

  1. Phosphagen System

    • Provides ATP for short-term, high-intensity exercises
    • Uses creatine kinase to replenish ATP
    • Active at the start of all exercises
    • E.g., sprinting, resistance training
  2. Glycolysis

    • Intermediate system
    • Uses glucose (blood or glycogen) to resynthesize ATP
    • Two types: Fast (anaerobic) and Slow (aerobic)
    • Pyruvate fate: Converts to lactate (fast glycolysis) or enters mitochondria (slow glycolysis)
  3. Oxidative System

    • Primary ATP source at rest and low-intensity activity
    • Utilizes carbohydrates and fats
    • Links glycolysis products to Krebs cycle and electron transport chain

Phosphagen System

  • Fastest system: 0-15 seconds
  • Utilizes creatine phosphate
  • Limited ATP storage, prioritizes for cellular function
  • Law of mass action influences ATP and creatine phosphate balance

Glycolysis

  • Anaerobic/Fast Glycolysis: Pyruvate to lactate, rapid ATP resynthesis
    • Lactate dehydrogenase catalyzes this
  • Aerobic/Slow Glycolysis: Pyruvate to Krebs cycle, slower but sustained ATP
  • Lactate processing in the Cory Cycle: Cleared to liver, converted back to glucose

Oxidative System

  • Low-intensity, long-duration energy supply
  • Uses fats, carbohydrates, occasionally proteins
  • Krebs cycle and electron transport chain activities
  • Produces significantly more ATP over time

Energy System Interaction

  • Overlap exists between systems based on exercise intensity and duration
  • No single system works alone

Practical Implications

  • Understanding systems aids in effective training program design
  • Intensity and duration dictate energy system engagement

Conclusion

  • Overview of energy systems relevant for trainers and coaches
  • Future videos to address specific training adaptations (e.g., lactate threshold)

Additional Notes

  • Energy system contributions depend on exercise intensity and duration
  • Key takeaway: Knowledge of energy systems enhances training specificity