Discuss the variability of maximal oxygen consumption relative to age for trained and untrained individuals.

Outline how maximal oxygen consumption differs between running and arm ergometry.

VO₂max/maximum oxygen consumption:
<absolute values> increase dramatically as people age/ up to peak VO₂max;

peaks around age 20 for males and mid/late teens for females;

steadily declines after peak as the individual ages;

is higher in a trained vs untrained individual <of a similar age>;

the effect of training can overcome decreases due to aging;

relative scores tend to be stable or decrease <depending on gender>;

the effect/impact of aerobic training on an individual's VO₂max is determined by their baseline VO₂max level;

arm ergometry involves less muscle mass compared to running;

arm ergometry has a lower VO₂max compared to running;

previous training will influence the difference between VO₂max between the two modes;

Accept in the converse.

Most candidates understood that the trained individual will have a higher VO₂max compared to a similarly aged untrained person. The combination of expecting a discussion on the impact of age and level of training made this a complex question in which to get full marks.

Students generally were able to gain the 2 marks available for this question.