Fats

Fats are stored for energy. The fats stored in the body are burned when physical exercise goes on for an extended amount of time. It is also the largest reserve energy source.

Choosing when to eat fats is important for athletes because eating fatty foods slow down digestion. So it is a good idea to avoid fatty foods a few hours before and after exercising.

Fats provide essential nutrients and help transport nutrients to provide energy. Being aware that natural fats are already in milk and cheese and that fat is added to potato chips and french fries. Limiting fats to a reasonable amount is a good idea for athletes. When more than a reasonable amount of fats is achieved, health and athletic performance could be affected.

Fat provides the highest concentration of energy, one gram of fat equals nine calories. Fats also help access the glycogen stores in high intensity exercises. Using fats as energy takes a lot of time though, the body has to first break down the fat, then transport it to the working muscles, before being able to be used as energy. Converting the stored fats in the body also takes a large amount of oxygen, which means that the exercise's intensity has to be lowered in order to convert the fat into oxygen.