CPSS Foundations of Exercise Science 3

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the term 'motor unit'?

Accepted Answer

A motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates

Answer

A motor unit consists of a single alpha motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates, which contract together upon stimulation.

Question 2

According to the size principle of motor unit recruitment, motor units are recruited in order of:

Accepted Answer

Increasing size, from smallest to largest

Answer

Henneman's size principle states that smaller, low-threshold motor units (Type I) are recruited first, with larger motor units (Type II) activated as force demands increase.

Question 3

What is the primary role of the muscle spindle during a rapid stretch of a muscle?

Accepted Answer

Detect the rate and magnitude of muscle stretch and initiate a reflex contraction

Answer

Muscle spindles (intrafusal fibers) sense changes in muscle length and stretch velocity, triggering the stretch reflex to resist further elongation.

Question 4

During submaximal steady-state aerobic exercise, which substrate provides the majority of ATP after 90+ minutes when glycogen is depleted?

Accepted Answer

Plasma free fatty acids

Answer

As muscle glycogen depletes, plasma free fatty acids mobilized from adipose tissue become the dominant fuel via beta-oxidation.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes 'excess post-exercise oxygen consumption' (EPOC)?

Accepted Answer

Elevated VO2 above resting baseline during recovery to restore homeostasis

Answer

EPOC represents the elevated oxygen uptake following exercise used to restore phosphocreatine, clear lactate, normalize temperature, and re-oxygenate blood.

CPSS - Certified Performance and Sport Scientist Practice Test

CPSS - Certified Performance and Sport Scientist Practice Test

CPSS Foundations of Exercise Science 3