Carbohydrate Use in Marathon Running

Running, whether it be sprinting or cross-country marathons, is one of the most difficult non-contact sports. The perseverance and focus required tops almost every other competitive endeavor, since the goal is not to defeat another team or person, but yourself. One way to enhance your marathon training is to learn to right forms of energy that you need and at the right times.

Your body requires the energy provided by carbohydrates for marathon running. Loading up on these energy boosters definitely adds that extra mile to your endurance and stamina. Your body stores carbohydrates as glycogen, which can be quickly broken down during any high-intensity activity to fuel burning muscles.

Carbohydrate intake prior to a run (but not on a heavy stomach) may support healthy blood sugar levels and stave off fatigue. Of course, you should avoid taking in any carbohydrates during a marathon, as this will mess with your blood-sugar levels and cut your run short.

Try to eat the “right” kinds of carbohydrates when training for a marathon, and avoid giving yourself an upset stomach by balancing them with protein and vitamins.

TriFuel is a great-tasting powder mix that combines premium ingredients including BCAAs, electrolytes, amino acids, easy-to-digest carbohydrates and other ingredients to increase performance and endurance, improve focus, and speed the recovery process by decreasing muscle damage that occurs with endurance exercise. TriFuel is beneficial before, during and after exercise to make sure you perform at your absolute best.