Carbs for track performance?

It's the night before the big race.

(Discreetly opens fridge) Nom…(looks around in paranoia)...Nom…(rolls eyes in satisfaction)...Nom (hell yeah)

Many runners tend to carb load, but how does this common habit affect performance? 

Indeed, the plentiful cardiothoracic application of glycolysis defines carbohydrates in their uncontested claim as man’s most optimal source of energy. Whether it be running a marathon, or sprinting a 100 meter-carbohydrates play an essential role in preparation as well as recovery: delaying fatigue and providing athletic drive. When carbohydrates are consumed the body converts the macronutrient into glucose. This simple sugar is then either used as immediate energy or stored into muscles or the liver as glycogen--relied upon to fuel muscle movements. Thus, even sprinting events such as the 200 meters may seem short, but proves to be extremely biologically intense: relying on and draining glycogen storages. Likewise, glycogen stored in the muscles is the primary source of energy during short but intense efforts allowing sprints to produce explosive power. Consequently, without sufficient glycogen sprinters may experience slower acceleration, less explosiveness, and pre-mature fatigue. 

Moreover, going into the middle distance events (800m-1500m) runners need a balance between speed and endurance. Since these events depend on both aerobic and anaerobic systems the need for carbohydrates is exemplified. Runners in these events especially require glycogen to sustain high speeds throughout their lap. 

Similarly, carbohydrates are arguably the most important macronutrient for long distance competitors. From the 5km to the marathon--the glycogen-powered aerobic system serves as the main fuel for these runners. Subsequently, a common issue for track athletes as the distance of their race is increased is that of “hitting the wall” where there is sudden increase of fatigue, followed by a dramatic decrease in pace. Consuming enough carbohydrates, however, aids to delay these effects. 

From sprinting to endurance running--carbohydrates are the key nutritional factor in determining performance. Through understanding how carbohydrates affect the body, one can optimize their performance at any distance.