The respiratory exchange ratio (RER) is the ratio of carbon dioxide released compared to oxygen consumed. Calculating RER can identify energy expenditure and will highlight whether a performer is working aerobically or anaerobically. A sports performer can therefore calculate when they are reaching their aerobic limit and when training intensity is too high for aerobic work.
Calculating RER will also determine which energy source is being oxidised. The energy sources we predominantly use when exercising are fats and carbohydrates (see pp. 16–17). When exercise is high in intensity, the primary source of energy is carbohydrates.
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