25/03/2021
๐CARBS & TIMINGโฑ
Timing carb intake is essential around training. What, when and how much carbs to eat will affect performance, strength and endurance
๐What?
Having enough carbs in the muscles will delay the onset of fatigue while training. ๐งThe type of carbs will depend on how close you are to training. Aim for low to medium GI (glycemic index) carbs a few hours before training to fill up the glycogen stores, for example, porridge, cereal, pancakes, bowl of pasta / rice / noodles / potato. Closer to training, a snack containing high GI carbs will top - up the glycogen stores for training, for example - banana, dates, energy ball, sports drink, jellies, toast with jam / honey, some cereals. During competition days or between training sessions, high GI carbs will top - up glycogen stores in the muscles to prevent fatigue.
โฐWhen?
Aim for a meal 2-3 hours before training and a snack 30 mins to 1 hour before.
๐How much?
The amount will depend on the intensity and duration of training. Aim for 1-4g of carbohydrate per kilogram of bodyweight. For example; for an 80kg individual, the minimum amount of carbs should be 80g. This can be spaced over the 1-3 hours before with a small meal and snack or a large meal. The longer the session, the more carbs required ๐ง๐ฅ๐ฅ๐
๐คKeep in mind the pre - training meal doesnโt always have to be a large meal of pasta / spuds. A bagel or sandwich will do the job along with a high carb snack 30 minutes pre-training. Preparation is key for competition days so see what pre - training meals / snacks work best for you ๐๐ผ