This Saturday, I get the opportunity to talk to a great group of people: the Watertown Bicycle Club. The group gets together weekly to go on bicycle rides. The ride distance varies each week as member’s skill levels and goals vary. One common thing amongst all members is they love riding bike! Many of the members are training for the long distance bicycle ride, the Tour de Kota. When biking long distances, it’s very important to practice proper nutrition. This topic is also especially important for running long distances such as marathons and half marathons. No matter what type of endurance activity you choose, proper nutrition is essential to get you through it!
Here are some quick training tips for those that are getting ready for an endurance activity:
- Consume a carbohydrate rich snack or meal before exercise to top off muscle stores. Include small amounts of protein in this meal to help build and aid in muscle repair. It’s also important to make this meal low in fat and fiber to ensure optimal digestion. Example: turkey and swiss sandwich, fruit, and sports drink.
- 30-60 minutes before exercise get hydrated with a sports drink or water.
- During exercise it’s important to consume adequate fluids to replace sweat losses. Dehydration can cause fatigue and impair performace. This needs to be tailored to your individual needs as everyone has their own tolerance.
- After exercise, refuel with a good meal or larger snack with a combination of protein and carbohydrates. This will help repair muscles and aid in the recovery process.
If you are interested in learning more about the Watertown Bicycle Club, you can visit their website at: http://www.watertownbicycleclub.com/.
-Kelsey
