📚

VCP 34 Lecture Notes on Energy Systems

May 15, 2025

VCP 34 Revision Lecture Notes

Introduction

  • Presenter: Angelica
  • AAR Notes founded in 2007 to support VC students.
  • Focus shifted to online lectures post-COVID.
  • Resources: Study notes, videos, newsletters, ATAR calculator, articles, past student tips.
  • Angelica's background: Graduated in 2019, Biomedical Science graduate, studying medicine.

Lecture Objectives

  • Cover Unit 3 topics: Movement skills, coaching practices, feedback, biomechanics, energy systems, and acute responses.

ATP and Energy Systems

  • ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): Energy currency of the cell.
  • Energy Systems:
    • ATP-PC System
    • Anaerobic Glycolysis System
    • Aerobic System

ATP-PC System

  • Uses phosphocreatine (PC) to convert ADP back to ATP.
  • Quick energy release, lasts 10-15 seconds.
  • Used during high-intensity activities like sprinting.

Anaerobic Glycolysis System

  • Breaks down carbohydrates (glycogen to glucose) without oxygen.
  • Produces lactic acid and hydrogen ions causing muscle fatigue.
  • Dominant in activities lasting up to 60 seconds at high intensity.

Aerobic System

  • Uses oxygen to break down carbohydrates and fats.
  • Produces more ATP, slower rate, less fatigue.
  • Suitable for lower intensity, longer duration activities.

Fuels for Energy Systems

  • Chemical Fuel: Phosphocreatine.
  • Food Fuels: Carbohydrates (glycogen), fats (triglycerides), proteins (rarely used).

Fatigue and Recovery

  • Causes of Fatigue:
    • Energy system fuel depletion.
    • Metabolic by-products (hydrogen ions) accumulation.
    • Elevated body temperature.
  • Recovery Methods:
    • Passive recovery for ATP-PC system.
    • Active recovery for anaerobic glycolysis and aerobic systems.

Acute Responses to Exercise

  • Respiratory Responses:

    • Increased respiratory rate.
    • Increased tidal volume.
    • Increased ventilation.
    • Increased pulmonary diffusion.
  • Cardiovascular Responses:

    • Increased heart rate and stroke volume.
    • Increased cardiac output.
    • Increased blood pressure.
    • Increased venous return and AV02 difference.
    • Blood redistribution to working muscles.
  • Muscular Responses:

    • Increased motor unit recruitment.
    • Increased muscle temperature.
    • Increased by-products production.
    • Decreased energy substrate levels.

Study Tips

  • Utilize VCAA past exams and reports.
  • Engage in active study techniques (flashcards, practice questions).
  • Consider using online forums for additional support and explanations.
  • Aim for quality study sessions over quantity.
  • Completing approximately 20 past exams can solidify exam preparedness.

Conclusion

  • Encourages use of online resources and forums.
  • Stay proactive in seeking clarification and practicing problem areas.
  • Good luck with VC studies!