By: Kelli Jennings

Kelli Jennings — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0000

Hi troglobiker,
Thanks for your comment. Yes, this is much easier said than done. With my clients, I insist that they practice good hydration in training rides so that it’s habit in a long tour or race. So many times it seems easier to just tough it out when training, but the habits need to be formed before it really counts. Also, I’m always surprised when athletes are advised to drink just to thirst in a long or intense ride…in my experience professional and personally, it’s too easy to forget to drink or delay it until it just becomes too late. And then you’re draggin and/or nauseous, as you said. Once nauseous, it’s hard to convince yourself to drink fluids, especially ones with carbs and lytes. If you actually get sick and vomit, dehydration becomes even more of a problem. My advise? Drink to a schedule…no matter if your thirsty or not. Pack the amount based on the time anticipated for the ride, and drink it up. Over-hydration is a much less common issue than dehydration. And, as I’m sure you realize, an 11 lb fluid loss is serious stuff! Keep working on the good habits! I hope this helps! Kelli, RD

By: troglobiker

troglobiker — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 13:45:00 +0000

I have found this to be the hardest part of cycling to master. In 2010, I sagged out of the local century due to dehydration. In 2011, I trained very hard and my legs were in great shape for the event. Felt great through about 70-80 miles and then started feeling the nausea. That’s when it snowballs; once I feel nauseous, I no longer feel like drinking. I rode the remainder of the 109 mile route fighting the nausea and trying to take on water. I weighed 182 before the ride and 173 after!!!!

Comments on: Fluid Intake While Cycling

By: Kelli Jennings

By: troglobiker