Hitting the Wall

You might have heard the phrase ‘hitting the wall’ before, and know that it can happen during an endurance sport, for example running and cycling.   What actually happens one someone “hits the wall”  and what can be done to prevent it?

Hitting the wall occurs when the glycogen stores in your muscles and liver are depleted.  Basically, your body has run out of fuel and you feel physically and mentally that you cannot continue. You can help prevent this from happening by replenishing your glycogen while performing your activity in the form of an easy to consume carbohydrate.  Proper training is also important.  For example, if training for a marathon, long runs help train your muscles to store more glycogen.