Definition
Strategic increase in carbohydrate intake 2-4 days before endurance competition to maximize muscle glycogen stores. It's the athlete's version of emotional eating, but scientifically justified.
Example Usage
Marathon runners carb load the night before the race with pasta and rice.
Origin
Technique developed by Swedish sports scientists in the 1960s
Fun Fact
Proper carb loading can extend endurance capacity by 2-3% in events lasting over 90 minutes by delaying glycogen depletion.
Source: Sports nutrition and endurance training
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