How long before a race should I start carb loading?
                                
                                
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                                    3 min read                                
                            
                                According to sports nutrition experts, effective carb loading requires more than just a large pasta dinner the night before a race. The modern approach recommends increasing carbohydrate intake over a period of 2 to 3 days to maximize muscle glycogen stores before an endurance event. This strategic timing is key to ensuring you have the fuel needed to perform your best.