Study 2: Fat Oxidation in Hot Conditions

A rat study examined the effects of increased muscle temperature on fat oxidation. The study discovered that in heated conditions, the rate of fat burning decreased by 32% compared to normal temperature conditions. This indicates that despite being well-trained and fat-adapted, athletes may still experience reduced fat burning efficiency in hot races. To compensate for this decrease, athletes may need to rely more on carbohydrate intake to support their energy needs and consider balancing their nutrition to optimize performance.