Bonking, also known as hitting the wall, is an unpleasant experience for any runner. It can happen to new runners who are just starting out, or experienced athletes taking part in a long-distance run or race.
When it happens, it often takes the form of sudden exhaustion and an inability to continue running. The physical symptoms can range from mild dizziness and disorientation to full-blown collapse.
Bonking is caused by depleted glycogen stores in the body, which can happen if a runner does not take on enough carbohydrates during a long run. It’s important to be aware of the signs of bonking and what you can do to prevent it from happening since it can not only hinder your training but also impact your health.
In this article, we’ll discuss what bonking exactly is, what causes it, what exactly it feels like, and how you can better support your body to avoid it during runs and marathon training.
What is Bonking?
Bonking is a phrase used to describe the functional depletion of glycogen caused by exercise. It’s when your muscles essentially run out of fuel, which has serious consequences for your health and ability to perform.
The term ‘bonking’ is commonly used by runners to refer to a shortage of energy or the point in a race when the legs cramp. But although…
