Effect of carbohydrate substrate availability on ratings of perceived exertion during prolonged running.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of carbohydrate substrate availability on ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) during prolonged submaximal running. Thirty marathon runners were recruited as subjects. A double-blind study design was used in which subjects performed an experimental trial that consisted of a 2.5-hr treadmill run at 75-80% VO2max. During the experimental trial, the subjects in the carbohydrate feeding group ingested a 6% glucose and fructose solution at a rate of approximately 60 g.hr, whereas subjects in the placebo group consumed an equal volume of artificially flavored placebo. Statistical analysis of RPE, respiratory exchange ratio, fat and carbohydrate oxidation rate, and blood glucose concentrations indicated that increased carbohydrate substrate availability attenuated the intensity of exertional perceptions during the later stages of prolonged running at 75-80% VO2max in marathon runners.