Learn More About Carb Loading

Carb loading isn’t just for marathoners — used well, it can top off your tank before any big effort.

Carbohydrates are your body’s fastest fuel. During longer or higher-intensity sessions your muscles lean on stored glycogen, and running low is what makes the last mile feel like a wall.

Loading simply means raising the share of carbohydrates in your meals a day or two before a demanding event so those stores start full. It’s about timing and proportion, not eating everything in sight.

Favor easy-to-digest sources — rice, oats, fruit, potatoes — and ease off fat and fiber right before the effort so your stomach stays comfortable. Hydration matters too, since your body stores water alongside glycogen.

For everyday training you rarely need to load at all; a balanced plate does the job. Save the strategy for race day, a big hike or a tournament — and let our nutrition coaches help you dial in the details.

Also at Montana Athletic Club: nutrition coaching, Clean Eatz meals, personal training.