The nervous system and motor units

Overview

The central and peripheral nervous systems, sympathetic and parasympathetic effects, motor neurones and motor units, the neuromuscular junction and the order of recruitment.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   Name the two main divisions of the nervous system.

   Model answer

   The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

2. 2

   What does the autonomic nervous system control?

   Model answer

   The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, breathing and blood vessel diameter. The autonomic system works without conscious thought.

3. 3

   How does the sympathetic nervous system prepare the body for exercise?

   Model answer

   The sympathetic system triggers the fight or flight response. Heart rate, breathing rate and blood flow to the muscles increase.

4. 4

   What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?

   Model answer

   The parasympathetic system calms the body and conserves energy. Heart rate and breathing rate fall as the body returns to rest.

5. 5

   Give three effects of sympathetic stimulation on a player during a match.

   Model answer

   Adrenaline is released and the bronchioles dilate. Glycogen is broken down to raise blood glucose.

6. 6

   What is the role of the somatic nervous system in sport?

   Model answer

   The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movement. Motor neurones carry its impulses from the brain and spinal cord to skeletal muscle.

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