Re: Would a jogger or a sprinter most likely build up more lactic acid? Why?

Lactic acid builds up when there is not enough oxygen to allow the 
cells to proceed with aerobic respiration.  Aerobic respiration is the 
normal way that your cells take glucose and produce ATP, carbon 
dioxide, and water.  This occurs through glycolysis, the Kreb's cycle, 
and finally electron transport. 


When your muscles are working very hard, the available oxygen is 
used too quickly and your cells revert to another method of producing 
quick energy.  This process is called anaerobic respiration, the result 
being lactic acid which you feel as a burning sensation in your 
muscles.


With this background, the answer to your question should be a bit 
clearer.  When a person is sprinting, his muscles are working 
extremely hard and most likely anaerobic respiration will have to 
occur resulting in lactic acid production.  Jogging is a less strenuous 
activity and will require less ATP and therefore less oxygen.  
Assuming that a jogger is in fairly good shape, his muscles should 
be able to supply the neccessary energy without anaerobic 
respiration and there will be less lactic acid.