Participation in the 880-yard sprint to contact during the Marine Corps' Combat Fitness Test will tax which of the following energy systems?

The 880-yard sprint to contact in the Marine Corps' Combat Fitness Test primarily relies on the phosphagen energy system. This system is most effective for quick bursts of high-intensity effort, typically lasting up to about 10 seconds. However, the distance of 880 yards, which can take longer than that, also engages the glycolytic energy system to some extent, as it provides the necessary energy for high-intensity activity lasting from about 10 seconds to 2 minutes.

While the oxidative system plays a role in longer-duration, lower-intensity activities by providing energy aerobically, it is not the primary system being taxed during a sprint of this distance. The correct answer highlights that the immediate energy source (phosphagen) is critical for finishing the sprint, but also acknowledges that both the glycolytic and oxidative systems can contribute as exercise duration increases.

In conclusion, since the question asks about which energy system will be primarily taxed during this specific activity, the focus on the phosphagen system is essential. However, the inclusion of glycolytic is important to understand in the context of the entire duration of the sprint, indicating that while the phosphagen system is dominant, the glycolytic system is also involved as the intensity and duration extend.