ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What phase of cardiovascular training is characterized by O2 supplied equalling O2 demanded?

1. Oxygen deficit

2. Steady state

3. EPOC

4. Recovery phase

The correct answer is: Steady state

The phase of cardiovascular training characterized by oxygen supplied equaling oxygen demanded is known as the steady state. During this phase, the body's aerobic energy system is in balance; the amount of oxygen being utilized for energy is matched by the amount being delivered to the muscles. This typically occurs after an initial period of exertion, where the body initially experiences an oxygen deficit as it ramps up to meet the demands of exercise. In steady state, the heart rate stabilizes at a level appropriate for the exercise intensity, allowing for efficient energy production and use. This is crucial for sustaining prolonged bouts of exercise and enhancing aerobic capacity, as it indicates that the cardiovascular and respiratory systems are effectively meeting the energy needs of the working muscles. The other choices relate to different physiological responses during exercise. Oxygen deficit refers to the initial phase when oxygen consumption is insufficient to meet the energy demands, EPOC (Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption) describes the period after exercise when the body continues to consume oxygen at an elevated rate to return to homeostasis, and the recovery phase involves various mechanisms that help restore energy levels and body functions after exercise.