What is the primary function of insulin in relation to exercise?

Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels, which is especially important during and after exercise. When you engage in physical activity, your muscles require glucose for energy. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, including muscle cells, thereby ensuring that sufficient energy is available for sustained exercise performance.

During exercise, the body can experience fluctuations in blood glucose levels. The efficient regulation by insulin helps to manage these changes, preventing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, which can hinder performance and recovery. While insulin has other roles, such as influencing protein synthesis and fat metabolism, its primary function in relation to exercise revolves around maintaining optimal blood glucose levels to support physical activity.