Tasting Success

Having a well thought out plan for your nutrition and hydration, both for racing and training is essential for good performance.
You plan your session, what you are going to wear, what you are going to carry…. even what music you’re going to listen to. How is it then that we so often see people falling apart on bike rides because they have not had breakfast or people slowing down on long runs because they never thought to carry any fluids or food. Don’t leave it to chance!

Everyone is different, so it can take time to figure out what strategies work for you.

Try different foods before a session, different timings and different types of energy drinks, gels and bars and so on in training.

Race Day Nutrition should be the result of a lot of trial and error and even when you trial it it still may not quite work out on race day due to variable conditions, however, failing to plan can be more disastrous!

It is important to start early so that you give yourself enough time to find what works for you. Many products are available in single serving packs so you can try different brands and combinations. This can also apply to pre and post workout meals. Try different variations and see what works. Some people cannot stomach food when training and it may take quite a while for you to get used to this without having to slow down or feel nauseous. Also know what nutrition will be available on the race course - it may be easier for you to use that rather than lug your own round the course, but what if they run out?
There is also a lot to be said for being self sufficient.
Eating while running or biking can initially be a bit tricky and getting the fluids or solids to settle in your stomach while you’re bouncing up and down can be a whole other matter!

Nutrition can have a real impact on the quality of your sessions. For shorter training sessions generally less than 60 - 90 minute, you should not need to take on any extra energy. However if you are doing a longer session, for example greater than 90 minutes, then it is essential you take some food with you. You need to keep topping up on carbohydrates so that you don’t run out of energy. Things you can take with you to easily eat in action include: Energy bars, Energy gels, Jelly sweets, Dried fruit, Sports drinks etc.

Practice during training and if this is an area where you are struggling, it might be a good idea to have a session with a sports nutritionist or speak to your Coach about the best place to start.

Happy munching!!