Hitting the wall

Location Gibraltar EU

Hitting the wall refers to a phenomenon primarily encountered by endurance athletes, such as marathon runners, cyclists, and long-distance swimmers, where an athlete suddenly loses energy and becomes fatigued, the cause of which is the depletion of glycogen stores in the liver and muscles. This condition is also known by the term "bonking" in the cycling world. Hitting the wall can occur in any endurance event but is most commonly associated with long-distance running.

Causes

The primary cause of hitting the wall is the depletion of the body's stored glycogen. Glycogen is a form of carbohydrate that is stored in the muscles and liver for energy. During prolonged physical activity, the body uses glycogen as its main source of fuel. Once these glycogen stores are depleted, the body must rely on other, less efficient sources of energy, such as fat stores. This shift can lead to a significant decrease in performance, marked by fatigue, weakness, and sometimes mental confusion.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hitting the wall include:

• Sudden feelings of fatigue
• Weakness or heaviness in the limbs
• Difficulty in maintaining pace
• Mental fog or confusion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Emotional changes, such as feeling suddenly disheartened or frustrated

Prevention

Preventing hitting the wall involves strategies both before and during the endurance event. Key strategies include:

• Carbohydrate loading in the days leading up to an event to maximize glycogen stores
• Eating a balanced meal with carbohydrates, proteins, and fats before the event
• Consuming carbohydrates during the event, through sports drinks, gels, or bars, to replenish glycogen stores before they are completely depleted
• Training the body to become more efficient at using fat as a fuel source, which can be achieved through long, slow distance training and specific dietary strategies

Management

If an athlete hits the wall during an event, the following strategies can help:

• Slowing down or taking a break to allow the body to recover slightly
• Consuming carbohydrates as soon as possible
• Staying hydrated
• Focusing on positive mental imagery and self-talk to combat negative emotions

Impact

Hitting the wall can significantly impact an athlete's performance and overall experience of an event. It is often described as one of the most challenging aspects of endurance sports. However, with proper preparation and strategies, athletes can minimize the risk of hitting the wall and improve their ability to manage it if it occurs.