Glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrates and is found in the liver and muscles. It is readily converted to glucose to be used as an immediate energy source, especially during vigorous or continuous exercise, such as a marathon. Sinse glycogen is such an important fuel source for the body, depleting muscle glycogen stores can have detrimental effects on performance.
The untrained individual typically holds about 400 g of glycogen stored in both the muscles and the liver, while a trained athlete can hold double that amount. This is enough glycogen to last several hours of exercise without replenishment.