3.3.8

Explain the phenomena of oxygen deficit and oxygen debt.

Oxygen deficit – when oxygen need and oxygen supply do not match during the first moments of exercise.

Oxygen debt – (now better known as Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption…. (EPOC)) – During recovery from exercise, oxygen consumption continues at a greater rate than needed at rest.

• O2 consumption remains elevated after exercise:

1. To rebuild ATP and Pcr stores in the cells
2. O₂ is “borrowed” from hemoglobin, especially myogloblin during initial stages of exercise and must be “repaid”

• Oxygen cost to help offset increase body temp following intense exercise