275. Carb-Loading vs. Fat-Adaptation: The Great Marathon Fueling Debate episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 25, 2025 · 46 MIN

275. Carb-Loading vs. Fat-Adaptation: The Great Marathon Fueling Debate

from Marathon Running Podcast by Marathon Journal

In this episode, we sit down with renowned expert Patrick Davitt to dive deep into the science of human performance. Dr. Patrick M. Davitt is the Program Director of Exercise Physiology at Saint Joseph's University, specializing in energy metabolism and fitness testing. With a PhD in nutritional physiology and biochemistry and over 15 years of experience, he is an ACSM Fellow and CSCS-certified expert known for his research on ultra-endurance athletes and nutritional strategies. We dive into the questions every runner has, including:What does it truly mean to be "fat-adapted," and is it right for you?Why the "eat before every run" rule isn't always necessary for all workouts.The ideal fueling strategies for different types of runs, from easy recovery jogs to high-intensity intervals.How a fat-adapted runner's race-day strategy differs from that of a carb-loader.Potential side effects and mistakes to avoid when changing your fueling approach.Dr. Davitt's ultimate advice for every runner, no matter their goals or experience level.Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just getting started, this episode is packed with expert insight to help you unlock your best performance.Guest Info: https://www.instagram.com/patrickdavittphd/ If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

In this episode, we sit down with renowned expert Patrick Davitt to dive deep into the science of human performance. Dr. Patrick M. Davitt is the Program Director of Exercise Physiology at Saint Joseph's University, specializing in energy metabolism and fitness testing. With a PhD in nutritional physiology and biochemistry and over 15 years of experience, he is an ACSM Fellow and CSCS-certified expert known for his research on ultra-endurance athletes and nutritional strategies. We dive into the questions every runner has, including:What does it truly mean to be "fat-adapted," and is it right for you?Why the "eat before every run" rule isn't always necessary for all workouts.The ideal fueling strategies for different types of runs, from easy recovery jogs to high-intensity intervals.How a fat-adapted runner's race-day strategy differs from that of a carb-loader.Potential side effects and mistakes to avoid when changing your fueling approach.Dr. Davitt's ultimate advice for every runner, no matter their goals or experience level.Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just getting started, this episode is packed with expert insight to help you unlock your best performance.Guest Info: https://www.instagram.com/patrickdavittphd/ If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

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275. Carb-Loading vs. Fat-Adaptation: The Great Marathon Fueling Debate

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Marathon Running Podcast by Marathon Journal?

This episode is 46 minutes long.

When was this Marathon Running Podcast by Marathon Journal episode published?

This episode was published on August 25, 2025.

What is this episode about?

In this episode, we sit down with renowned expert Patrick Davitt to dive deep into the science of human performance. Dr. Patrick M. Davitt is the Program Director of Exercise Physiology at Saint Joseph's University, specializing in energy metabolism...

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