What is the primary role of carbohydrates in exercise?

Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy during exercise, particularly during high-intensity workouts. When the body engages in intense physical activity, it relies heavily on carbohydrates because they can be quickly broken down into glucose, which is then used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of the cells. This rapid conversion is crucial for sustaining energy levels and performance in activities such as sprinting, weightlifting, and other forms of explosive exercise that demand quick bursts of power.

In contrast, while carbohydrates are essential for energy, they do not play a direct role in muscle mass building, flexibility enhancement, or the provision of vitamins and minerals. Proteins are primarily responsible for muscle repair and growth, flexibility is influenced by various factors including exercise type and stretching, and vitamins and minerals come from a diverse diet that includes various food groups, not solely carbohydrates. Thus, the role of carbohydrates is specifically centered on energy provision, particularly during high-intensity activities.