ABSTRACT
The maximal rate of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production is related to the power developed during a bout of exercise and is dependent on the maximal rates of ATP utilized by the muscle. These energy sources include those contained within the energy continuum, i.e. ATP, phosphocreatine (PCr), breakdown of muscle glycogen rapidly resulting in lactic acid formation, and the aerobic oxidation of carbohydrates and fats. The maximal rate of ATP utilization during intense exercise reflects the rate of ATP hydrolysis by ATPases at the cross-bridges. The maximal rate of ATP production from PCr is lower than that for ATP hydrolysis, and is limited by the maximal rate of PCr degradation by creatine kinase (CK).
