Energy systems
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Energy systems
Energy production is both time and intensity related. Running at very high intensity means an athlete can operate effectively for only a short period of time. Running at low intensity means that an athlete can keep going for a much longer period of time. In a rugby match most of the work done is at high intensity but only lasts for a short period of time with rest periods in between. This is especially true for a winger or fullback like Jason Robinson who only really work at full intensity when they have the ball or are chasing a kick.
Immediately after kick-off the energy used by the players is provided by the splitting of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). ATP is a complex chemical compound that is the main energy source for nearly all biological activity. It is stored in relatively large quantities in the muscles and provides the energy for muscular contraction. Energy is released when the bond between the Adenosine and one of the phosphate groups is broken down by the action of an enzyme called adenosine triphosphase. When this happens the ATP is broken down into ADP (Adenosine diphosphate) and a phosphate group...