Tapering .... ?

[MissionMan]

One is always told to taper. Does anyone know what the biometrics is on this? (i.e. other than not arriving at the race over trained / tired, how does tapering affect your body physically?)

[rudi-h]

I don't know all the physiological reasons, but from a bit of reading on the subject, I understand it this way.

 

You put in some serious hard sessions as preparation for an event and as a result, serious strain on your muscles. Your body also uses a lot of glycogen, electrolytes etc. during this proces. It is then during the recovery process that your muscles become stronger and your body "stores" glycogen, electrolytes etc.

 

Tapering is just a way to ensure that your body has recovered from the sessions before so that your muscles are as strong as possible for an event.

 

I do however think that many "casual" sportsmen take this too far by tapering down for 3 - 5 weeks in advance. I think a few days or a week should be good enough.

 

My 2C -

[MissionMan]

Thanks man, makes sense...