ACE Group Fitness Instructor Practice Exam

What physiological change occurs in endurance-trained athletes who add strength training to their regimen?

1. Increased Type 1 muscle fibers

2. Improved endurance capacity through Type 2 muscle fibers

3. Enhanced flexibility

4. Greater cardiovascular efficiency

The correct answer is: Improved endurance capacity through Type 2 muscle fibers

When endurance-trained athletes incorporate strength training into their regimen, one significant physiological change is the improvement in endurance capacity, particularly through adaptations in Type 2 muscle fibers. Unlike Type 1 muscle fibers, which are predominantly used for endurance activities and are more fatigue-resistant, Type 2 muscle fibers (often referred to as fast-twitch fibers) are more suited for explosive and high-intensity efforts. When strength training is added to an endurance program, the Type 2 muscle fibers can become more efficient and develop greater oxidative capacities, promoting improved endurance performance. This adaptation allows athletes to perform at higher intensities for longer periods. The strength training creates a neuromuscular stimulus that can enhance overall muscular strength, allowing endurance athletes to sustain efforts during their activities more effectively. In contrast, while increased Type 1 muscle fiber recruitment is important in endurance training, it is not the primary adaptation when strength training is added. Enhanced flexibility and greater cardiovascular efficiency often come from specific training protocols not directly addressing the strength training component. Therefore, the key takeaway from the integration of strength training by endurance athletes is the enhanced capacity of Type 2 muscle fibers, which directly correlates to improved endurance performance.