Practice IB Sports, exercise and health science (SEHS) Topic A.1 Communication with authentic exam-style questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank focuses on the exact syllabus content for A.1 Communication and mirrors Paper 1A, 1B, 2 style where relevant.
Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build confidence with questions aligned to IB examiner expectations.
Based on the graph, which of the following best explains the observed glucose trends?
A bar graph showing the percentage of cardiac output redistributed to different organs at rest and during maximal exercise.
Which option best describes how cardiac output is redistributed during maximal exercise?
(e) one possible impact of reduced sleep quality on training recovery or performance adaptation in this cohort.
(f) Using data from the table and figure, how oestradiol levels might contribute to glycogen sparing during the follicular phase.
(g) From a coaching perspective, which phase (follicular or luteal) may be better suited for glycogen-depleting sessions. Support your answer with specific data.
(h) how integrating hormonal and physiological data can be used in individualized training programs for female athletes.
During a marathon, what is the main goal of homeostasis?
Researchers conducted a longitudinal analysis of female endurance athletes across a full menstrual cycle. Hormone levels (Figure) and training-related physiological variables (Table) were measured. The aim was to explore how reproductive hormone fluctuations influence thermoregulation, fuel metabolism, and recovery, and how coaches could adapt training accordingly.
Table: Physiological Indicators During the Menstrual Cycle (Athletic Cohort Study)
| Day of Cycle | Core Temperature (°C) | Sleep Quality Score (1–10) | Muscle Glycogen Use During Exercise (g/hr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 36.5 | 8.5 | 55 |
| 13 | 36.6 | 8.8 | 50 |
| 16 | 37.1 | 6.0 | 38 |
| 21 | 37.2 | 5.5 | 36 |
| 28 | 36.6 | 7.0 | 48 |
Figure 1: Hormonal Fluctuations Across the Menstrual Cycle
(a) the day with the highest core temperature from the table.
(b) Using the figure, the hormone most likely responsible for this thermogenic effect and its functional significance for thermoregulation.
(c) how this thermogenic effect may influence endurance training or hydration strategies during the luteal phase.
(d) the relationship between progesterone levels and sleep quality over the second half of the cycle.
(a) Using the table, the minute ventilation at rest and during heavy exercise.
(b) Using the table, how minute ventilation increases during heavy exercise.
(c) why minute ventilation must increase during exercise.
High-GI meals reduce insulin release, resulting in higher blood sugar throughout exercise
Low-GI meals maintain stable glucose availability, enhancing endurance performance
Low-GI meals trigger rapid insulin response and lead to early hypoglycemia
High-GI meals increase glucagon secretion and stabilize blood glucose better
The percentage of cardiac output to the brain increases, while that to the muscles decreases.
The muscles receive a significantly greater percentage of cardiac output, while less is sent to the kidneys and GI tract.
All organ systems receive a higher absolute volume of blood due to increased cardiac output.
The GI tract and kidneys receive more blood during exercise to support digestion and excretion.
The respiratory system exchanges gases to supply oxygen for cellular respiration. The figure shows minute ventilation at increasing exercise intensities. The table shows the tidal volume and breathing frequency of the same person at rest and during heavy exercise.
Figure: Minute ventilation against exercise intensity
Table: Tidal volume and breathing frequency at rest and during heavy exercise
| Condition | Tidal volume (L) | Breathing frequency (breaths min⁻¹) |
|---|---|---|
| Rest | 0.5 | 12 |
| Heavy exercise | 2.5 | 40 |
