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Mohamed is a high jumper - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 7 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 7
Mohamed is a high jumper. During the high jump the gastrocnemius and the tibialis anterior work antagonistically to allow movement at the ankle during take-off. (a)... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Mohamed is a high jumper - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 7 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain the importance of this antagonistic muscle action to the high jumper.
Answer
The gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior act as agonist and antagonist pairs during the high jump. The gastrocnemius contracts, allowing for plantar flexion at the ankle, which generates greater force and helps in pushing off the ground more effectively. This action is crucial for gaining height during the jump, as it enables the jumper to exert maximum force during take-off.
Step 2
Stating the component of fitness tested by each test.
Answer
Fitness test (i): Sit and reach test
Component of fitness tested: Flexibility
Fitness test (ii): Cooper 12-minute swim
Component of fitness tested: Cardiovascular fitness
Fitness test (iii): Vertical jump test
Component of fitness tested: Power
Step 3
Explain which one of the fitness tests in Table 6 is the least relevant to Mohamed’s high jump performance.
Answer
The Cooper 12-minute swim test is the least relevant to Mohamed’s high jump performance. Although it measures cardiovascular fitness, it does not directly correlate with the power and explosive strength required for jumping. High jump performance relies more on plyometric strength and flexibility rather than endurance-based activities like swimming.
Step 4
Describe plyometric training.
Answer
Plyometric training involves exercises that use explosive movements to enhance muscle power and speed. These exercises typically include activities like jump training, bounding, and depth jumps which aim to improve explosive strength by utilizing the stretch-shortening cycle of muscles. The focus is on maximizing the force and power output of muscles during rapid sequences.
Step 5
Justify one reason why weight training would not be suitable to improve Mohamed's high jump performance.
Answer
Weight training primarily focuses on building muscle size and strength, which can lead to increased body mass. For a high jumper like Mohamed, higher body mass may hinder agility and speed during the jump. In contrast, plyometric training is better suited as it helps develop the explosive strength necessary for optimal jump performance.