Why are Carbohydrates important? Sucrose is an example of a complex carbohydrate. Carbohydrates are very important to athletes because they supply most energy which athletes use. Two different forms of carbohydrates: Simple carbohydrates, provide instant energy Complex carbohydrates are stored to be used by muscles in harder or long term activities, made up of two or more simple sugars linked together (as seen in Sucrose above) Studies have shown that sports drinks must contain 5 - 8% carbohydrates in order to be effective. A greater amount than this slow down fluid absorption and cause stomach cramps Simple carbohydrate used by athletes most readily is glucose Glucose is broken down by the process of glycolysis Back to Home