Energy Requirements of a Strength/Power Athlete: Part 2

Like other nutrients we need to consider what type of carbohydrates (carbs) a strength/power athlete needs to consume. For example high vs. low glycemic index foods. The glycemic index (GI) ranks carbs based on the blood-glucose response after ingestion. Some nutritionists suggest that an athlete manipulate both high and low GI to enhance carbohydrate availability.

In most cases low GI carbs are the best choice prior to exercise or training. Foods such as vegetables, whole grains or fruit normally fit into this category. Carbs with a moderate to high GI are best post-workout as in recovery meal.

Strength/power athletes should ingest approximately 55-60% of carbohydrate in their total Kcal intake per day. The majority of these should be moderate to low GI rated carbs. The exception being post-training ingestion of carbs.