Hargreaves, M., & Briggs, C. A. (1988). Effect of carbohydrate ingestion on exercise metabolism. Journal of Applied Physiology, 65, 1553-1555.

Male cyclists (N = 5) performed two hours of cycle ergometry at 70% VO2max on two occasions. The CHO trial consisted of ingesting 250 ml of a glucose polymer solution containing 30 gm of carbohydrate at 0, 30, 60, and 90 minutes of exercise. In a control trial a placebo was ingested on the same schedule. No differences in oxygen uptake or heart rate occurred between the trials.

There were no differences between conditions in all measures, the amount of glycogen used being the same.

Implication. Carbohydrate ingestion during extended submaximal exercise does not affect glycogen utilization. Submaximal work bouts do not require carbohydrate supplementation.

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