Edexcel GCSE Physical Education key terms

A fast twitch muscle fibre with very high force, a fast speed of contraction and low endurance.

The extent to which a test measures the fitness component or ability it is intended to measure.

A structure that prevents blood flowing backwards, helping it move in one direction.

Practice of a skill in different situations or conditions, requiring the performer to adapt.

Redistribution of blood flow towards working muscles and away from less active areas during exercise.

Narrowing of blood vessels, which reduces blood flow through them.

Widening of blood vessels, which increases blood flow through them.

A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.

The main vein bringing deoxygenated blood from the body into the right atrium.

The flow of blood back to the heart through the veins.

The movement of air into and out of the lungs through breathing.

A lower chamber of the heart that pumps blood out through an artery.

Spoken instructions or explanations that help a performer carry out a skill.

An individual bone of the vertebral column.

The column of vertebrae running down the back, supporting the body and protecting the spinal cord. Its five regions are cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum and coccyx.

An imaginary line running through the body from top to bottom, around which the body twists.

Guidance provided through something the performer can see, such as a demonstration, video or diagram.

The maximum volume of air that can be breathed out after the deepest possible breath in.

An organic nutrient needed in small amounts to support processes such as maintaining healthy tissues and using energy from food.

A muscle under conscious control that works with the skeleton to produce movement; also called skeletal muscle.

A period immediately before performance during which a performer prepares physically and mentally for the activity.

Supporting the body's weight or a load placed on the body.

Exercise in which the feet and legs support the body's weight, such as walking or running.

Training using weights or other resistance to develop muscular fitness.

Feeling comfortable, healthy and happy, including how someone feels about themselves and their life.

A blood cell that helps defend the body against infection and disease.