Energy Systems of Weight Training
Weight training primarily uses the ATP-PC and Glycolysis system instead of the Cellular respiration system because typically exercises when weight lifting don't last longer than 5 minutes; although Cellular respiration can be used if trying to remove fat to become more
defined.
If the individual is exercising to improve their cardiovascular condition, cellular respiration is the main energy pathway used. This is because cellular respiration is able to provide energy for longer periods of time which is essential for improving cardiovascular effectiveness. This system is used while running or cycling and other activities that last for over 30 minutes.
Glycolysis is involved with improvement of the cardiovascular system for the first 3 minutes, than cellular respiration completely takes over. Glycolysis isused for durations of about 15 seconds to 3 minutes, meaning it is primarilyused for short burst/endurance events such as a hockey shift or a 200-800 meterdash. This energy system is used when sprinting, endurance based weight lifting and other activities that last under 5 minutes.
The ATP-PC system is used when the activity will last anywhere between 10-15 seconds. It is only meant for short, strong bursts of energy because after the short duration, the
energy system has been exhausted. Unlike Glycolysis and Cellular respiration the
ATP-PC system can't be improved by more than 10%. This energy system is used
when performing heavy weight lifting that last less than 15 seconds.