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31 — Sports Medicine (20 marks) (a) Why do iron deficiency and lower bone density affect female athletes? (b) To what extent do specific sports’ policies promote safe participation? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 31 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 31
31 — Sports Medicine (20 marks) (a) Why do iron deficiency and lower bone density affect female athletes? (b) To what extent do specific sports’ policies promote s... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:31 — Sports Medicine (20 marks) (a) Why do iron deficiency and lower bone density affect female athletes? (b) To what extent do specific sports’ policies promote safe participation? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 31 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
Why do iron deficiency and lower bone density affect female athletes?
Answer
Iron deficiency can significantly impact female athletes, primarily due to its role in oxygen transport and energy production. A decreased iron level can lead to anemia, reducing the capacity for endurance and causing fatigue, which is critical in sports participation. Furthermore, the menstrual cycle can exacerbate iron loss, especially in endurance athletes, making it essential for female athletes to maintain adequate iron levels to support their performance.
Bone density is equally important, as lower bone density increases the risk of fractures and injuries. For female athletes, this can be linked to factors such as low calcium intake and hormonal changes, which can affect bone health. Failure to address these deficiencies can limit athletic participation and performance, leading to a higher injury risk. Thus, understanding and managing iron and bone health is vital for the long-term wellbeing of female athletes.
Step 2
To what extent do specific sports’ policies promote safe participation?
Answer
Sports policies play a critical role in ensuring the safety of participants by outlining guidelines for safe practices in various sporting contexts. Rules regarding safety equipment, modifications for children, and the management of climate conditions all contribute to fostering a secure environment in which athletes can participate.
For instance, policies that dictate the use of protective gear, such as helmets in contact sports, significantly reduce the risk of injury. Furthermore, sports organizations often implement regulations to establish safe playing conditions, such as the monitoring of weather conditions in relation to heat stress in sports like tennis.
By enforcing these policies, sports organizations help create awareness among participants and coaches about the importance of safety measures, ensuring that all players can engage in their sport with minimized risk of injury. Consequently, it can be argued that effective sports policies are crucial not only for promoting safe participation but also for enhancing the overall experience of athletes in their respective sports.