AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which metabolic process involves the conversion of glucose into lactic acid due to insufficient oxygen?

1. Aerobic glycolysis

2. Aerobic threshold

3. Anaerobic glycolytic system

4. Phosphagen system

The correct answer is: Anaerobic glycolytic system

The metabolic process that involves the conversion of glucose into lactic acid due to insufficient oxygen is accurately identified as the anaerobic glycolytic system. This process occurs during intense physical activity when the oxygen supply is insufficient to meet the energy demands of the muscles. In this scenario, glucose is broken down through glycolysis, which produces pyruvate. In the absence of sufficient oxygen, pyruvate is then converted into lactic acid. This allows for the continuation of energy production, albeit less efficiently than in aerobic conditions. Understanding this system is essential for personal trainers, as it helps explain human performance under various conditions, particularly during high-intensity exercise. The anaerobic glycolytic system can provide quick energy, but it also leads to lactic acid accumulation, which can contribute to muscle fatigue. The other metabolic processes mentioned each serve different functions within the energy production spectrum. Aerobic glycolysis refers to the process where glucose is metabolized with adequate oxygen, leading to a more efficient yield of ATP without lactate buildup. The aerobic threshold is a specific exercise intensity level where the body shifts from an anaerobic to an aerobic state, not a metabolic process itself. The phosphagen system provides immediate energy for short bursts of high-intensity activity but does not involve glucose