Journal of Sports Medicine & Doping Studies

Optimizing Endurance in Long-distance Swimming through Nutritional Support

Abstract

Ashley Hart

Endurance in long-distance swimming is a critical determinant of success, requiring athletes to sustain physical and mental performance over extended periods. The integration of nutritional strategies plays a pivotal role in optimizing endurance, enabling swimmers to push their physiological limits while maintaining energy levels and avoiding fatigue. This report explores the complex interplay between endurance, the physiological demands of longdistance swimming, and the role of nutritional aids in supporting performance. Long-distance swimming places unique demands on the body, involving prolonged periods of moderate to high-intensity physical exertion. During such events, swimmers rely heavily on aerobic metabolism to provide the energy required for sustained muscle activity. Glycogen, stored in muscles and the liver, serves as the primary energy source during endurance activities. However, glycogen stores are finite, and their depletion is a major factor contributing to fatigue. To counteract this limitation, swimmers must employ nutritional strategies that maximize glycogen availability and promote efficient energy utilization.