I’m definitely of the opinion that we should strive to be the best person that we can possibly be….but sometimes making comparisons to your “best self” can have negative results. When I was around 14 years old, I spent a lot of my summers playing golf. My friends and I would bike over to...
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Have you ever thought about taking the challenge of competing in the Tour Divide? This is an “underground” cycling race that has become increasingly more popular over the years, and my friend Vance McMurry knows exactly what it’s all about because he gave it a shot last year. Known as the world’s toughest mountain...
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Do you strive for perfection in all that you do? Of course we all set out to do our best in all we’re involved with….including cycling, but is the pursuit of perfection hampering you from the results you are looking for? Have a read through what my man, Joel from Reasons2Ride has to say...
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At one point in my life I was faced with a decision, and the wisdom that was provided to me was “Always Walk in the Direction of Opportunity”. That statement has stuck with me these past 12 or so years and it’s been the reasoning behind my move to St. Kitts, my first move...
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Do you ever struggle between the idea of “living each day like it’s your last” and “preparing for your future”? I know I definitely do, and it can sometimes make life…interesting, to say the least. I’m a firm believer in living out your dreams, today, and not putting things off until tomorrow. But on...
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Here’s a little dose of “feel good” from my crazy buddy, Duzer to kick off this Make it Happen Monday. Once again I’m featuring the Duz one more time, but how can I help it. This dude just keeps pumping out such inspirational bikey goodness, so it’s hard not to want to share it...
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We’ve all heard the phrase, “Pay it Forward”…but what we might not realize is just how big of an impact it can have on someone’s life. Today, we share the story of two cyclists who had their lives changed forever and are so grateful that they continue to Pay it Forward. I’ve been thinking...
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It’s that time of year where a lot of people are creating New Year’s Resolutions and gearing up for the best year ever. Setting goals is a fantastic idea, and something that really should be done throughout the year. In honor of making 2012 a kick butt rocking year for you on and off...
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As many of you will remember I spent a week in July at Le Tour with @SteamyWynndows & @AndyMWild and as a result of that trip, ended up the proud owner of a limited edition Team Sky jersey signed by the riders. Since returning from the Tour I’ve been determined to make that Sky...
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I’m going to let a great video and manifesto image from a company called Holstee do the talking today. This company believes in the same things we do over here at Loving the Bike, and they have a great way of expressing it. Check out their manifesto and then watch their inspiring bikey video...
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Unfortunately due to the ridiculous nature in which our planet has decided to rotate through space and influence time and seasons, I missed last week’s #bikeschool session (9pm EST if you hadn’t got the hang of it yet). This was unfortunate for 2 reasons; the obvious being I didn’t get to have my hour...
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The month of December is pretty much party central for the Loving the Bike Family. During the month we celebrate three Birthdays, one Anniversary, Christmas…and this time around we’re tossing in a trip to Hawaii. I love to celebrate these kinds of events, but I don’t let the celebrating stop at Birthdays, Anniversaries, and...
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Question: Out of habit, I’ve always eaten cereal (granola) before my morning ride. For the last several weeks, I’ve been riding at 6am to avoid the heat, and eating at 5:30 am. I haven’t had any stomach issues, but I am not sure that this is the best pre-ride meal strategy. My legs have felt heavy since starting to ride earlier. My rides are 1.5-2 hours. Should I eat less, something different, or nothing at all? What do you think?
Kelli’s Answer: I think your pre-ride fuel strategy can be improved. The issue with eating a moderately high fiber breakfast within 30 minutes of beginning a ride is that it will likely take too long to digest, absorb, and metabolize to provide any energy to your muscles at all. And, what’s more, if the meal is setting in your stomach, you are increasing your risk of stomach cramps (but it sounds like you’ve been okay here) and a reduced bloodflow to your legs since your body is working at digesting.
Although many athletes feel like they need a full breakfast before a morning ride, I think you’ll have better result with less food, and ones that you can eat quickly and metabolize faster.
My first choice would be 2 Tablespoons organic honey + 0.5 – 1 Tbsp organic coconut oil (all straight off the spoon). Why? These are fast-acting, quick-metabolizing energy foods. The honey provides moderately fast carbs that act similarly to maltodextrin (moderately fast and longer lasting than glucose), natural enzymes to improve digestion, and antioxidants. The organic coconut oil provides fast-acting medium chain triglycerides which are used directly by the mitochondria of cells (energy producers) without the need for bile or slow digestion.
Another option would be a sports food with a moderate amount of protein – something like a Clif bar. Or, a smoothie with 1/4 cup yogurt, 1/2 banana, 1 Tbsp honey, and water. These foods will also digest quickly and provide energy during your ride.
And, don’t forget about 8 oz. of fluid.
During your ride, especially if high intensity and over 60 minutes, or moderate intensity and over 90 minutes, you’ll still need during-ride fuel as well. With all rides in heat, you’ll want fluids and lytes!
