FatMax, also known as the maximal fat oxidation rate, is a concept used in endurance sports to determine the intensity at which an individual burns the highest amount of fat for energy. It represents the optimal exercise intensity for maximizing fat utilization during exercise.
During low-intensity exercise, the body relies primarily on fat as a fuel source. As exercise intensity increases, the body starts to rely more on carbohydrates for energy. FatMax is the exercise intensity where fat oxidation is at its peak before carbohydrate oxidation becomes the dominant energy source.
Determining an individual’s FatMax through metabolic testing can help design training programs for endurance athletes. Training at or near the FatMax intensity can improve fat metabolism efficiency, enhance endurance performance, and increase the body’s capacity to utilize fat as a fuel source. This is especially important for long-duration events where carbohydrate stores may become depleted.
Training strategies to target FatMax often involve low- to moderate-intensity workouts, such as long slow distance (LSD) runs or steady-state cycling. By training at this intensity, athletes can improve their aerobic capacity, spare glycogen stores, and enhance their endurance performance by utilizing fat as an efficient energy source.