What Determines Maximal Fat Oxidation?

We’re all a little different in terms of our physiology. That’s one reason why some people have an easier time reaching physique or performance goals than others. A study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise suggests there are large variations for reaching maximal fat oxidation even among athletes.
 
Researchers had 1,121 male and female athletes from a range of sports take a graded treadmill tests where fat oxidation rates were determined by indirect calorimetry. In general, males had higher maximal fat oxidation than females, and soccer players had much higher rates compared to football players. Body fat, level of fitness and time between meals did factor into the rate of fat oxidation, but only accounted for 47% of the differences. The rest was individual uniqueness.