What is the approximate carbohydrate intake for open-weight athletes?

• A. 250 g/day
• B. 500 g/day
• C. 450 g/day
• D. 700 g/day

Answer: (B)

Open-weight rowers typically have high training load, and carbohydrates are the main fuel for high-intensity rowing and for refilling glycogen after workouts. A practical target of about five hundred grams of carbohydrate per day provides enough fuel and supports recovery for most athletes with substantial training volume. It sits in a useful middle ground that fits common training demands without overdoing energy intake.

A smaller amount, like around two hundred fifty grams, would likely fall short for regular intense sessions and long rows. A value around four hundred fifty grams can be reasonable for some, but five hundred grams is the commonly cited practical target for open-weight athletes. A value as high as seven hundred grams is more than many athletes need and could be harder to manage unless training demands are exceptionally high.