Mikkipedia Dr. Paul Laursen: Exploring the Physiological Impact of High Carbohydrate Fuelling Strategies in Endurance Sport
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This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks with Dr. Paul Laursen, renowned sports scientist, endurance coach, and co-founder of Athletica AI. Dr. Laursen has been at the forefront of endurance research, particularly in exploring the evolving role of carbohydrates in fueling elite and age-group athletes. Together, they dive into the science and practical application of high-carbohydrate intake during endurance events, including the evidence behind consuming up to 120 grams per hour, how this practice became a gold standard for elites, and the factors that influence an athlete's ability to efficiently utilize such large amounts.
Dr. Laursen sheds light on the physiological impacts of extreme carbohydrate fueling, addressing its potential benefits, limits, and risks, including GI distress, inflammation, and even its connection to overtraining or heart health in some cases. He shares insights into why age-group athletes often struggle when emulating elite practices and offers practical strategies for aligning carbohydrate intake with individual needs and training loads.
Mikki and Dr. Laursen also discuss the misconceptions around low-carb approaches in endurance sports, hybrid fueling strategies that combine low- and high-carb periods, and the importance of balancing performance with long-term health. With his years of coaching and research, Dr. Laursen shares invaluable advice for endurance athletes looking to optimize their fueling strategies, whether they're chasing personal bests or aiming for sustainable performance. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of endurance nutrition and how to fuel smarter.
Dr. Paul Laursen is a world-renowned sports scientist, endurance coach, and co-founder of Athletica AI, an innovative platform leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize endurance training. With a PhD in Exercise Physiology and years of research experience, Dr. Laursen has published extensively on topics including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), endurance performance, and sports nutrition. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge science and practical application for athletes at all levels.
Dr. Laursen has worked with elite athletes across disciplines, helping them achieve peak performance through personalized training and nutrition strategies. He’s also a passionate educator, co-authoring the influential book The Science and Application of High-Intensity Interval Training and contributing to the evolution of endurance sports practices. Known for his holistic approach, Dr. Laursen focuses on the interplay between fueling, recovery, and overall athlete health, making him a leading voice in the field of endurance sports.
When he’s not advancing endurance science, Dr. Laursen is often found testing his own limits in the field as an endurance athlete, embodying the principles he teaches. His unique blend of scientific expertise and real-world experience continues to shape the way athletes train, fuel, and perform
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/46
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https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/how-to-fuel-for-health/id1490521721?i=1000675196238
https://www.mikkiwilliden.com/unlocking-metabolic-mastery-2025
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