The Youth Button

13
Apr
2011
By

In today’s society and North American culture that we live in, it’s as easy as dropping a few thousand dollars, a nip here, a tuck there…..and you can instantly look younger.  In the good old days, people had to search (and work) to find the Fountain of Youth….now it’s as simple as hitting the Youth Button.  I’ve even heard ads on the radio offering face lifts and tummy tucks on a payment plan for something like $180 per month.  WTF?

We’re cyclists, right?  We know better, and we know that we too can hit the youth button by getting on our bikes and riding.  That’s right, it’s no surprise that my cycling friends look incredible and much younger than what their age tells them they are.  Do you remember the contest we did last year that showed off how great some of these cyclists look for their age?  If you missed it, have a look at our “How Old Are These Cyclists?” post.

Not only does cycling (and good nutrition) help keep us looking young, it also makes us feel young as well…..and very babe-a-licous. I don’t know about you, but I find the people who look great as a result of being active much more attractive and youthful looking than those who hit the youth button.

The Fountain of Youth is out there, and you can get there by taking your bike.  What do you think?  Has cycling enabled you to bathe in the Fountain of Youth?

Photo c/0 Mike Sheldon
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  • Bob Rogers

    Youth lies not in smooth skin or even speed, youth lies between one’s ears. However I do like it that my legs look 30 years younger, from cycling of course.

    • http://lovingthebike.com Darryl is Loving the Bike

      I like how you said that, Bob.  You are totally right…..it is a state of mind.  Keep on rocking those miles on your bike.

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Tim-Starry/100000742238449 Tim Starry

    “…strong emphasis on remaining youthful. This does not imply a superficial
    or cosmetic appearance of youth. It is instead an emphasis on
    maintaining a youthful outlook on life…” –Joe
    Friel

    • http://lovingthebike.com Darryl is Loving the Bike

      You always seem to come up with fitting quotes….and so quickly.  Thanks, Tim.

  • http://www.daretobecome.com DareToBecome

    Oh yes without question! Cycling, swimming, running, etc. The moment I made the decision to have an active lifestyle my age felt like it was actually decreasing rather than increasing. They can keep that knife….I’ll just move my arse.

    • http://twitter.com/lovingthebike Darryl

      You are definitely doing just that. Keep on moving and inspiring.

      Darryl

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What’s the best fuel for an early morning ride?

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!

Please send us your questions for our Expert Sports Nutritionist, Kelli Jennings to “Ask the Sports Nutritionist“. Kelli Jennings is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for healthy eating, wellness, & sports nutrition. For more information go to www.apexnutritionllc.com.
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