NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

How does submaximal exercise affect oxygen consumption?

1. It increases

2. It decreases

3. It remains unchanged

4. It fluctuates

The correct answer is: It decreases

Submaximal exercise typically involves performing physical activity at an intensity that is below an individual's maximum capacity. During submaximal exercise, the body's demand for oxygen increases to meet the energy requirements of the working muscles. Therefore, oxygen consumption actually increases in response to submaximal exercise to supply the necessary energy and support metabolic processes. The choice that states oxygen consumption decreases is not accurate since, during submaximal exercise, the body adapts to the workload by enhancing oxygen delivery and utilization to sustain physical activity. Additionally, while there might be fluctuations in oxygen consumption based on factors such as exercise intensity, duration, and an individual’s fitness level, the general trend during submaximal activity is a steady increase in oxygen uptake relative to the intensity of the exercise being performed.