What must the body do to recover from oxygen debt?

• A. Increase breathing rate to supply more oxygen to the muscles
• B. Lower body temperature to slow down metabolism
• C. Decrease heart rate to conserve energy
• D. Reduce blood flow to the muscles

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of oxygen debt: Oxygen debt occurs when the body uses more oxygen than it can supply during intense exercise, leading to an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles.
2. Recognize the body's response to oxygen debt: The body needs to restore normal oxygen levels and remove lactic acid, which involves several physiological adjustments.
3. Identify the role of increased breathing rate: Increasing the breathing rate helps supply more oxygen to the muscles, which is crucial for breaking down lactic acid and replenishing energy stores.
4. Consider the effect of body temperature: Lowering body temperature is not typically a response to oxygen debt. Instead, maintaining an optimal temperature is important for efficient metabolic processes.
5. Evaluate the role of heart rate and blood flow: Decreasing heart rate and reducing blood flow to muscles are not typical responses to oxygen debt. Instead, maintaining or increasing heart rate and blood flow ensures adequate oxygen delivery to the muscles.