Which best explains why a systems approach is essential in exercise science?

• Systems work independently and can be studied separately

• One system dominates exercise while others rest

• All systems coordinate to allow safe and effective performance

• Only the muscular and skeletal systems determines exercise outcome

During a basketball game, a player reacts quickly to steal the ball. Which part of the nervous system is most responsible for processing this decision?

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• Central Nervous System (CNS)

• Somatic Nervous System

• Autonomic Nervous System

An athlete’s breathing rate increases from 15 breaths per minute at rest to 45 breaths per minute during a soccer match. Which process is directly supported by this change?

• Increased hormone secretion

• Improved gas exchange in alveoli

• Faster recovery of muscle injuries

• Reduced motor neuron firing

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

Which nervous system pathway is activated when a volleyball player jumps to spike the ball?

• Sensory neurons carrying signals to the CNS

• Motor neurons carrying commands from CNS to muscles

• Autonomic neurons adjusting heart rate

• Parasympathetic neurons promoting recovery

A weightlifter holds their breath during a heavy squat. Which function of the respiratory system is most compromised?

• Gas exchange

• Ventilation

• Acid–base balance

• Voice production

After a track race, a runner’s parasympathetic system becomes dominant. Which outcome follows?

• Increased blood flow to muscles

• Slower heart rate and recovery promotion

• Faster reflexes and reaction time

• Greater release of adrenaline

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

Fatigue often slows down reaction time in athletes. Which mechanism best explains this?

• Delayed sensory input to the brain

• Reduced oxygen availability to muscles

• Slower transmission of nervous system signals

• Overproduction of hormones

The medulla oblongata plays a crucial role in exercise by:

• Controlling involuntary breathing patterns

• Releasing stress hormones during activity

• Directing voluntary skeletal muscle contraction

• Protecting the spinal cord from injury

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

A gymnast relies heavily on balance and coordination. Which system integration is MOST responsible?

• Nervous with muscular and skeletal systems

• Endocrine with digestive system

• Respiratory with urinary system

• Integumentary with immune system

Which change in breathing mechanics allows a sprinter to take in more oxygen during inhalation?

• Diaphragm relaxes, lungs expand

• Rib cage contracts inward

• Diaphragm contracts, rib cage expands

• Lungs release residual air