Explain why a marathon runner's diet in the days... | Physical Education 0413 | Paper 1 Mock 01 | Theory

Question 1 Report

Explain why a marathon runner's diet in the days before a race should be high in carbohydrates. [3]

Answer

Answer Details

Answer:

A marathon runner's pre-race diet should be high in carbohydrates because:

Carbohydrates are the body's main energy source during exercise - they are broken down into glucose, which fuels muscular contraction during both aerobic and anaerobic work. [1]
Eating extra carbohydrates increases glycogen stores in the muscles and liver. Glycogen is the stored form of glucose, and building up these reserves before a race means the body has a larger fuel supply to draw upon. [1]
This provides fuel for sustained endurance activity, allowing the runner to maintain their pace for the full 42.2 km distance without "hitting the wall" - the point at which glycogen stores are depleted and the performer experiences a sudden drop in energy. [1]

This dietary strategy is commonly known as "carbohydrate loading" and typically begins 2-3 days before the event.

Explain why a marathon runner's diet in the days before a race should be high in carbohydrates. [3]