The use of alcohol is often intimately associated with
sport. As well as providing a source of energy, alcohol
(ethanol) has metabolic, cardiovascular, thermoregulatory,
and neuromuscular actions that may affect exercise
performance. Strength is minimally affected, and performance
impairments depend on the dose of alcohol and
subject habituation to alcohol intake, exercise duration,
environmental conditions, and other factors. Central nervous
system function is impaired at high doses, resulting in
decrements in cognitive function and motor skill, as well as
behavioral changes that may have adverse effects on performance.
Effects may persist for hours after intoxication.