Fat

Fat is kept by the body as triglycerides and provides much energy. Endurance athletes typically store approximately 50,000 calories of fat. The body, during extended exercise, makes the transition to using fats instead of carbohydrates as energy providers, lasting greater than two hours. Training improves the body’s ability to utilize fat through enhanced mitochondrial and enzyme function. It prevents wasting glycogen stores and alleviates fatigue. The body utilizes fats from the diet to produce hormones and to nourish the cell as well. Excess body fat can impair performance, but taking the proper amount of healthy fats (such as omega-3s and unsaturated fats) is essential for endurance activities and recovery.