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Date May 2019 Marks available 2 Reference code 19M.3.HL:.tz0.6
Level Higher Level Paper Paper 3 Time zone time zone 0
Command term Explain Question number 6 Adapted from N/A

Question

Describe the effects of altitude on fluid loss.

[2]
a.

Discuss the possible benefits of the live high, train low (LHTL) approach to altitude training.

[2]
b.

Explain how altitude can impact the performance of an athlete competing in long jump.

[2]
c.

Markscheme

at altitude, there is a decrease in water vapour in air / humidity is lower;

low humidity causes an increase in insensible water loss;

increased respiratory water loss;

increased sweat evaporation;

there is an increase in urine production at altitude;

the greater need for energy increases the need for fluid intake.

 

[2 max]

a.

by training low athletes are able to maintain the high level of intensity needed to improve performance;

They will have a competitive advantage as they will have the physiological benefits of living at altitude;

living at altitude encourages increase in number of red blood cells/capillarization in athletes’ bodies;

increase in VO2 max.

 

[2 max]

b.

reduced air density / air resistance / less drag / atmospheric pressure, so their jump flight is improved;

run up speed may be improved;

gravity is reduced very slightly which may further improve flight and so long jump distance.

 

[2 max]

c.

Examiners report

Not many had increased respiratory water loss.

a.

Well done on the whole.

b.

Many talked about the jump being affected but failed to give specifics regarding the run up for long jump.

c.

Syllabus sections

Option A: Optimizing physiological performance » A.5. Training and performance at altitude (HL only) » A.5.7. Evaluate the impact of altitude on sports performance.
Option A: Optimizing physiological performance » A.5. Training and performance at altitude (HL only)
Option A: Optimizing physiological performance

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