Marathon runners are long-distance runners (marathons are races that are 26.2 miles long). Studies have shown that the muscles of marathon runners contain an abundance of slow-twitch fibers. Which of the following statements about these fibers is true?

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Slow-twitch fibers are also known as type I muscle fibers and are characterized by their high endurance and ability to generate ATP aerobically (with oxygen). They contain a high number of mitochondria, which are responsible for producing ATP through aerobic respiration. This is important for marathon runners who need sustained energy for long periods of time. Fermentation, on the other hand, is an anaerobic process that produces ATP quickly but is not sustainable for long periods of time.

Marathon Runners Are Long-Distance Runners (Marathons Are Races That Are