Glycogen: The Fuel Tank You Didn’t Know You Had

I was recently asked about the topic of glycogen. The inquisitive individual was very familiar with the concept of blood sugar and was an elite athlete. However, they had never heard the term glycogen, and thus, did not connect the dots between blood sugar, glycogen, and sport performance. Our conversation ended with the realization that the nomenclature in sport and nutrition is often confusing. While athletes often intuitively know some of this information, connecting the dots between what it’s called in a research study or by sport scientists with how they refer to the exact same thing, may be helpful. So, this week’s article will be all about glycogen (aka stored glucose).

Let’s Break it Down: What Is Glycogen?

After we consume carbohydrates they are broken down into smaller molecules (aka glucose/blood sugar) so that they can be easily transported throughout the blood. This blood sugar is used to power our brain, various physiological functions, and power our high intensity physical activity. Whatever glucose is left over, the body sweeps up and stores it for later in the form of glycogen. It is primarily stored in the liver and muscles.

When you’re resting