Cover image of The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance
The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance
Jeff S. Volek
Quick Take
A Revolutionary Program to Extend Your Physical and Mental Performance Envelope.Our recent book 'The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living' was written for health care professionals, championing the benefits of carbohydrate restriction to manage insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type-2 diabetes.In response, our athlete friends asked "What about us?"This companion book is our answer, and it could be titled: 'The Art and Science of Avoiding the BONK'. But actually, it is much much more than that. The keto-adapted athlete benefits from superior fuel flow not only when nearing glycogen depletion, but also during training, recovery, and in response to resistance exercise as well."On a well designed ketogenic diet as recommended by Jeff and Steve, I consume up to 4200 Calories per day while maintaining 6-7% body fat. This transformation has increased my power to mass ratio and allows a high level of performance in a range of activities. Equally if not more important is the efficiency with which I operate in every facet of my life. My energy level in the keto-adapted state is constant and nver undulates." Tony Ricci, MS, CSCS, LDN, CISSN, CNS. High Performance Coach/Sports Nutritionist
Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance

Introduction

"The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance" by Jeff S. Volek is a revolutionary program that extends physical and mental performance envelope. This book is a companion to "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living," which was written for healthcare professionals, focusing on the benefits of carbohydrate restriction for managing insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type-2 diabetes. In response to athlete requests, Volek presents a comprehensive guide tailored to athletes, addressing the effects of a ketogenic diet on performance.

About Jeff S. Volek

Jeff S. Volek is a renowned expert in the field of low carbohydrate living and athletic performance. As a professor of kinesiology at the University of Connecticut, he has dedicated his career to researching the effects of dietary interventions on athletes. With his co-author, Stephen Phinney, Volek has authored several influential books on low carbohydrate living, including "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance." His expertise and dedication to the subject have made him a respected figure in the world of sports nutrition and athletic performance.

Analysis of Views

  1. Comprehensive Guide: Readers praise the book for providing a comprehensive guide to low carbohydrate performance, addressing various aspects of athletic training and competition. The book covers topics such as nutrient intake during exercise days, the effects of ketogenic diets on weight lifting, and the impact on endurance sports.
  2. Practical Insights: Many readers find the book practical and valuable, as it offers insights into how a low carbohydrate diet can improve athletic performance. The book provides clear explanations and scientific evidence to support its claims, making it an excellent resource for athletes looking to enhance their performance.
  3. Recipes and Meal Plans: Readers appreciate the inclusion of recipes and meal plans in the book. These provide guidance on how to incorporate low carbohydrate diets into daily life, making it easier for athletes to maintain their performance while adhering to their dietary requirements.
  4. Scientific Approach: The book's scientific approach and emphasis on research-based information are highly commendable. Readers appreciate the in-depth analysis of the biochemistry of the human body and the scientifically supported claims made throughout the book.
  5. Overlap with Previous Book: Some readers express disappointment that there is a significant overlap between "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance" and "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living." They feel that they would have preferred more new information or recipes in the book rather than repetition from the previous work.

Reasons for Recommendation

  1. Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides a comprehensive guide to low carbohydrate performance, covering various aspects of athletic training and competition. Readers appreciate the thorough coverage and find it valuable for their understanding of the subject.
  2. Practical Insights: The practical insights offered in the book make it an excellent resource for athletes looking to enhance their performance through a low carbohydrate diet. The clear explanations and scientific evidence support the claims made in the book, making it a reliable source of information.
  3. Recipes and Meal Plans: The inclusion of recipes and meal plans in the book is highly appreciated by readers. These provide guidance on incorporating low carbohydrate diets into daily life, making it easier for athletes to maintain their performance while adhering to their dietary requirements.
  4. Scientific Approach: The book's scientific approach and emphasis on research-based information are highly commendable. Readers appreciate the in-depth analysis of the biochemistry of the human body and the scientifically supported claims made throughout the book.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

  1. Repetition from Previous Book: Some readers express disappointment that there is significant overlap between "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance" and "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living." They feel that they would have preferred more new information or recipes in the book rather than repetition from the previous work.
  2. Limited Focus on Strength Training: While the book covers endurance sports extensively, some readers feel that it does not provide enough information on how a low carbohydrate diet can impact strength training. They would have liked more detailed guidance on this aspect of athletic performance.

Conclusion

"The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance" by Jeff S. Volek is a valuable resource for athletes interested in enhancing their physical and mental performance through a low carbohydrate diet. The book provides a comprehensive guide to various aspects of athletic training and competition, including nutrient intake during exercise days, weight lifting, endurance sports, and more. While some readers express disappointment about the overlap with Volek's previous book, others find it practical and valuable for their understanding of low carbohydrate living and athletic performance. Overall, "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance" is recommended for those looking for a reliable source of information on this subject, particularly athletes seeking to improve their performance through dietary interventions.