A Novel Method to Predict Carbohydrate and Energy Expenditure During Endurance Exercise Using Measures of Training...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Sports nutrition guidelines emphasize individualized carbohydrate (CHO) intake based on training load.
• Current methods for assessing CHO utilization during training are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• Quantify relationships between training load metrics and CHO/energy expenditure (EE).
• Develop and validate predictive models for CHO utilization and EE using training load and individual factors.

Main Methods:

• Two-part study: primary (cycling) and validation (cycling, running, kayaking).
• Measured training load via heart rate, power, and perceived exertion.
• Determined CHO use and EE using gas exchange and anaerobic methods.
• Developed predictive models using general estimating equations.

Main Results:

• Strong correlations (r=0.76-0.96) between training load metrics and CHO/EE.
• Models in the primary study showed high variance explained (R²=0.77-0.96) and good accuracy.
• Validation study showed improved accuracy with calibration (CHO: 8-18% error; EE: 6-12% error).

Conclusions:

• Strong linear relationships exist between training load and CHO/EE in cycling.
• Accurate estimation of EE and CHO utilization is possible using predictive models.
• Models are applicable to running and kayaking with calibration.