muscles need extra oxygen to get rid of lactic acid. this extra oxygen is called the oxygen debt and is the amount of oxygen needed to get the body back to its resting state. most of the lactic acid gets turned into carbon dioxide and water and a little back into glucose when enough oxygen is available. Cool-downs help reduce the Oxygen debt and clear any lactic acid in the muscles

What is lactic acid breakdown and removal?

Lactic acid breakdown and removal What is the role of the oxygen system in this process? The aerobic system is responsible for the breakdown of lactic acid. Therefore, light exercise, where the aerobic system is stimulated, will speed up the removal and breakdown of lactic acid. Warm down Be able to discuss the benefits of active vs. passive recovery with regard to the following: muscular contractions (stimulate faster circulation of the blood) oxygen levels (assist in the breakdown of lactic acid) venous pooling and effects on recovery (inhibits recovery)

What is lactic acid breakdown?