AQA A-Level Physical Education 7582
The Cardiovascular System
The Respiratory System
The Neuromuscular System
The Musculo-Skeletal System and Movement Analysis
Energy Systems
Skill, Transfer and Practice
Theories of Learning
Guidance and Feedback
Information Processing and Memory
The Emergence and Globalisation of Sport
Equal Opportunities in Sport
Diet and Nutrition
Preparation and Training Methods
Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
Biomechanical Principles and Levers
Linear and Angular Motion
Projectile Motion and Fluid Mechanics
Personality and Attitudes
Arousal and Anxiety
Aggression
Motivation and Achievement Motivation
Social Facilitation and Group Dynamics
Goal Setting
Attribution Theory
Self-Efficacy and Confidence
Leadership
Stress Management
Concepts of Physical Activity and Sport
Development of Elite Performers
Ethics and Violence in Sport
Drugs in Sport
Sport, the Law and Commercialisation
Drugs in Sport
EPO, anabolic steroids and beta blockers
- 3 things to know
- Paper 2
Overview
EPO, anabolic steroids and beta blockers, how each improves performance, who uses them, and their physical and psychological side effects.
What you need to know
Answer each one before you reveal it.
How does taking EPO improve performance?
Which performers are most likely to use EPO, and why?
Questions from this subtopic
Each one with the model answer underneath.
- 1
What is erythropoietin (EPO)?
Model answer
EPO is a hormone produced naturally by the kidneys. EPO stimulates the production of red blood cells.
- 2
How does taking EPO improve performance?
Model answer
Extra red blood cells increase haemoglobin and the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. VO₂ max rises, so the athlete can work harder for longer.
- 3
Which performers are most likely to use EPO, and why?
Model answer
Endurance athletes such as cyclists and distance runners are the likeliest users. Events such as the Tour de France depend heavily on oxygen delivery to the muscles.
- 4
What are the health risks of EPO?
Model answer
EPO thickens the blood by increasing its viscosity. Thicker blood raises the risk of clots, heart attack and stroke.
- 5
Why is EPO more dangerous when an athlete is dehydrated?
Model answer
Dehydration reduces plasma volume, making the blood even thicker. The heart must work harder, and clotting becomes more likely.
- 6
What are anabolic steroids?
Model answer
Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the male hormone testosterone. Anabolic steroids promote muscle growth.
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