What is the primary bioenergetic limiting factor for an athlete competing in a marathon race?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the key bioenergetic factor that limits an athlete's performance during a marathon. This involves understanding the energy systems used by the body during prolonged endurance activities and identifying which one becomes the primary limitation.
Answer
Depletion of carbohydrate stores (glycogen).
The primary bioenergetic limiting factor for an athlete competing in a marathon race is the depletion of carbohydrate stores (glycogen).
Answer for screen readers
The primary bioenergetic limiting factor for an athlete competing in a marathon race is the depletion of carbohydrate stores (glycogen).
More Information
While athletes have considerable fat reserves, carbohydrates like glycogen are limited, and once depleted, performance drops significantly.
Tips
Athletes often overlook the importance of carbohydrate loading and maintaining energy reserves during long races.
Sources
- Metabolic Factors Limiting Performance in Marathon Runners - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Skeletal muscle energy metabolism during exercise - Nature - nature.com
- Contemporary Nutrition Strategies to Optimize Performance in ... - journals.humankinetics.com
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