I’m super stoked to announce the launch of our new Loving the Bike jersey, Kit, and kids jersey. This is the second generation of the Loving the Bike Kit and with it comes a hot new design and bibs instead of shorts….and of course, it will make you ride faster, just like the 2011...
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I’m a cyclist who claims that I was born with a pair of sunglasses on my face. I don’t think I’ve ever been out riding without a pair on…yes, even when it’s raining I’m wearing sunglasses. Today we have Nate Schrader from SunglassWarehouse.com providing a guest post on what to look for when purchasing...
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Stevie is definitely the most knowledgeable pro tour writer I know and he’s here with a fantastic overall preview of what’s to come in the Giro d’Italia. Things kick off tomorrow morning at 9:40AM EST and be sure to check out the stage previews and live blogging coverage for the entire tour over at...
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I wasn’t sure I would write about the cycling tragedy that happened here in Austin over the weekend. But yesterday I cycled past the spot it occurred….and after being overwhelmed with emotions, and just had to pay tribute as well as express my rant. Last Saturday, 55-year old cyclist Verter Ginestra was struck down and...
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The pre-ride ritual. Most every cyclist has one, whether strategic or not. At the top of the list is what to eat. Some ride on nothing, even after fasting through the night. Some swear by oatmeal, energy bars, or baked potatoes. For me, when it comes to my favorite pre-ride fuel, it’s gotta be...
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Another #30daysofbiking has just wrapped up and it’s totally safe to say that this has been the best one yet. I’d like to congratulate everyone who took part in this event and committed to riding bikes every single day in April. I heard a whole bunch of great stories and experienced once again how...
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It’s that time of year when many cyclists are cranking up the miles for some long, hot rides….which also means a need for more hydration. I’m sure most of you have at least one (but probably two) bottle cages on your bike. But what do you do when you’re in need of carrying more...
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Here’s a look at who’s loving the bike for May 2012. At the top of each month we like to feature the amazing stories and memories of people who are loving the bike. Please take a look at what these lovers have to say. Hey…..and we’d love to hear from you as well….feel free...
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As I’ve said before, I’m a cycle race fan. Whether it be pro or local amateur racing, I like watching/reading/learning and would say a great deal of my love of cycling has come from watching professional racing and I try to imitate a lot of that in my training, style and biking ‘image’. You...
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Did you know that positive self talk can get you up that hill faster on your bike? It sure can, but don’t take my word for it. Today we have my good friend and Cycling 360 co-host, Rob Grissom here to share his personal story of how thoughts can have a dramatic effect on...
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Question: ”I am a mountain biker who rides and races long-distance (24 hour races, 100-milers, etc). My favorite and most trusted sports drink recently added caffeine to the mix. 50 mg in 3 scoops, which is approximately the amount I would use in 2 hours of a long-distance ride. I’m afraid of the possible side effects...
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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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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!
