ExpertHard6 marksExtended Response
AQA GCSE · Question 11 · Socio-cultural Influences and Well-being in Physical Activity and Sport
Evaluate the effects that different performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) may have on a sprinter's performance.
Evaluate the effects that different performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) may have on a sprinter's performance.
How to approach this question
To 'evaluate', you need to consider both positive and negative effects. Choose at least two different types of PEDs suitable for a sprinter (e.g., anabolic steroids, stimulants). For each drug, explain how it could improve performance (the positive effect) and then describe the associated health risks or other drawbacks (the negative effect). Conclude with an overall judgement.
Full Answer
Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) are substances used by athletes to illicitly improve their performance.
- **Anabolic Steroids**: Mimic testosterone, promoting muscle growth and strength. Ideal for power events like sprinting. Side effects include liver damage, heart problems, and psychological disturbances.
- **Stimulants**: Increase activity of the central nervous system, enhancing alertness, focus, and reaction time, while masking fatigue. Side effects include anxiety, insomnia, addiction, and cardiovascular problems.
- **Human Growth Hormone (HGH)**: Stimulates muscle growth and aids recovery. Side effects include joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.
The evaluation must recognise that while these drugs can lead to faster times, they are banned for being against the spirit of sport and for posing significant health dangers to athletes.
Common mistakes
Only listing drugs and their effects without evaluating them (weighing up pros and cons). Not linking the drug's effect specifically to a sprinter's performance (e.g., just saying 'makes you stronger' instead of 'increases power for a faster start').
Practice the full AQA GCSE Physical Education Paper 2
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