Final answer:
The statement regarding smooth muscle being slow in contraction but highly fatigue resistant is true. Slow fibers in skeletal muscle have an extensive capillary network and are suited for long-duration contractions. The proportion of muscle fiber types varies among individuals, affecting their proficiency in different physical activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that smooth muscle is the slowest of all muscle in contraction speed and is also the most fatigue resistant is true. Smooth muscle, which is found in the walls of visceral organs except the heart, operates under a different mechanism compared to striated muscle. It does not tire easily and can sustain long-term contractions. This muscle type is equipped with features such as the stress-relaxation response, allowing organs to fill and empty efficiently without premature emptying.
While slow fibers in skeletal muscle indeed contain the pigment myoglobin, have a large number of mitochondria, and can contract for extended periods, the claim that they have a small network of capillaries is false. As a matter of fact, they have an extensive capillary network to support their endurance capabilities. The heart consists of cardiac muscle, not smooth muscle. Sprinting is an anaerobic exercise because it requires short bursts of intense energy, not relying on oxygen-driven metabolic processes.
It's pertinent to notice that individuals have varying proportions of slow-twitch to fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are influenced by genetics. This is what makes some people better at endurance activities, while others excel in activities requiring quick, powerful movements.