What is the impact of training on an athlete’s basal metabolic rate (BMR)?

Training can increase an athlete's basal metabolic rate (BMR) due to several physiological adaptations that occur with regular exercise, particularly resistance training and high-intensity aerobic training. As athletes engage in consistent physical activity, their muscle mass typically increases. Muscle tissue is metabolically active and requires more energy to maintain compared to fat tissue. This increase in muscle mass can result in a higher BMR, meaning that the body burns more calories at rest.

Furthermore, intense training can also lead to hormonal changes that enhance metabolic processes. For instance, hormones such as testosterone and growth hormone, which can be elevated through strength training, play significant roles in muscle growth and metabolism. Additionally, athletes may experience a phenomenon known as "excess post-exercise oxygen consumption" (EPOC), where the body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate after the workout has ended, contributing to an overall increase in metabolism over time.

This understanding highlights the significance of incorporating training into an athlete's routine, not only for performance enhancement but also for its capacity to elevate metabolic rates, supporting the body’s energy needs in both active and resting states.