Outline the general principles of nutrient timing for endurance athletes before, during and after performance. (3 marks)
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- Pre-performance nutrition should focus on carbohydrate intake several hours before activity to optimise glycogen stores for sustained exercise.
- Food consumed prior to activity is useful only if digested and its energy made available to working muscles.
- During longer endurance events, athletes need carbohydrate replacement to maintain blood glucose levels and delay fatigue.
- Post-performance nutrition aims to quickly restore glycogen stores and return the body to its pre-event state.
- Proper timing maximises energy availability while avoiding digestive issues during prolonged competition.
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- Pre-performance nutrition should focus on carbohydrate intake several hours before activity to optimise glycogen stores for sustained exercise.
- Food consumed prior to activity is useful only if digested and its energy made available to working muscles.
- During longer endurance events, athletes need carbohydrate replacement to maintain blood glucose levels and delay fatigue.
- Post-performance nutrition aims to quickly restore glycogen stores and return the body to its pre-event state.
- Proper timing maximises energy availability while avoiding digestive issues during prolonged competition.