Abstract

There have been significant changes in the understanding of the role of carbohydrate during exercise in recent years and this allows for more specific and more individualised advice with regards to carbohydrate ingestion during exercise. The new guidelines proposed take into account the duration (and intensity) of exercise and advice is not restricted to the amount of carbohydrate, it also gives direction with respect to the type of carbohydrate. The recommended carbohydrate intake can be achieved by consuming drinks, gels of low fat, low protein and low fibre solid foods (bars) and selection should be determined by personal preference. It must be noted that most studies are based on findings in runners and cyclist and more work is needed to establish the effects and underlying mechanisms of carbohydrate ingestion on skill components in intermittent team sports.