Using a sporting example, describe how reaction time and speed impact performance. (4 marks)

This question has 2 parts. Firstly, you must demonstrate you understand what reaction time and speed are.

-Reaction time is the amount of time it takes to respond to a stimulus.
-Speed is the ability to move the body quickly over a set distance.

Then, you must show that you can relate this to an example.

An easy sporting example that uses both fitness components mentioned is sprinting:
A quick reaction time means that the sprinter will respond to the sound of the starting pistol in a shorter time. Therefore, the sprinter will finish the race in a quicker time and be more likely to win.

Having high speed means the sprinter can run faster, so can complete the distance between the start and the finish line in a shorter time. So, the sprinter is more likely to win the race and get a personal best time recorded.

You must make sure that the effect of having a better/worse reaction time or speed is fully explained and what the outcome will be.