We all have times when we make a major drawdown on our energy supply. One of those times is participating in a major sporting event.
There are strict regimes that serious sports people use both before and after the event to build up energy stores, and then replenish energy following the event. The two most common energy management methods are:
- Carb Loading
- Glycemic Index
Carb Loading , also called glyco-replenishment is using a precisely timed schedule of eating carbs and proteins for up to a week before the event, culminating in a major load up for the preceding 12 hours. This common glycogen restoring method involves:
- 2-3 days of carbs depletion using a very low carb diet, followed by
- 1-2 days of carb loading using a high carb diet.
The goal of carb loading is to pump maximum glycogen into the muscle tissues just before the event, giving maximum stamina, and increased competitive edge.
For more information on Glyco-Replenishment
Bodybuilders also use a similar method known as Glycogen Cycling to replenish energy supplies after major events or workouts.
Glycemic Index is managing your energy supply using foods which either give you a quick energy boost [more suited to short term energy requirements] or longer energy supply for endurance. Foods with a low glycemic index take longer to release the energy sugars into the blood so give a controlled sustained supply of energy.
For more information on Low Glycemic Index Foods
Manage Your Energy Well
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