Carbo-loading is a technique commonly used by
endurance athletes who are involved in activities that last more than 90
minutes. It is used as a strategy to increase the amount of fuel stored inside
the muscles for improvements in athletic performance. It is usually done a week
before a high-endurance activity.
Carbohydrates
are the body's first source of energy taken from food. When a person intakes
carbohydrates, the body breaks it down in the form of sugar where it transfers
to the bloodstream. Sugar that is not utilized or used will be stored in the
liver and muscles in the form of glycogen. During endurance races, when
carbohydrates are no longer available, the body uses this stored energy to help
fuel the rest of the activity.
