Observation

The performance of candidates in this question was above average.

In part (a), majority of the candidates highlighted four ways of preventing muscle cramp.

In part (b), majority of the candidates could not explain flat foot and scoliosis.

In part (c), majority of the candidates stated two reasons why an athlete should have a good body posture.

The expected answers are as follows:

(a)      WAYS OF PREVENTING MUSCLE CRAMP

• Adequate warm up/light stretching exercise
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty fluids/water/pickle juice
• Avoid exercising in hot weather
• Taking calcium, potassium  and magnesium supplements
• Wearing shoes that fit properly
• Keeping body weight at a healthy range
• Avoid medications that can cause cramp as a side effect
• Avoid over exertion of the muscles
• Reduce alcohol intake
• Getting enough electrolyte in your diet
• Eating a lot of unprocessed diet/named
• Do not exercise immediately after eating
• Reduce the consumption of stimulants/named
• No smoking
• Wear proper sports attire

    -       Adequate training for the event                                             

(b)    (i)         EXPLANATION OF FLAT FOOT
-  It occurs when the arches in the inside of the feet are flattened
-  Allowing the entire soles of the feet to touch the floor when standing
-  It stretches from the heel to the big toe
-  It involves tearing of the ligament supporting the arch of the foot

(ii)        EXPLANATION OF SCOLIOSIS
-  The spine bends outwards/lateral in sideways directions/curvature
-  The vertebral bone deviates from the medium line or plane of the body
-  One shoulder is elevated than the other     

                                                                                   
(c)     REASONS WHY AN ATHLETE SHOULD HAVE A GOOD BODY POSTURE
-      For balancing / good muscular and skeletal balancing/body alignment
-      For efficient movement/free joint movement/reduces joint pains
-      For better breathing/respiration
-      Improves circulation and digestion
-      Ensures good sports performance
-      Makes athletes less prone to injury
-      Boosts self-esteem/confidence
-      Increases energy level
-      Reduces pains at the lumbar region of the back