April 2014 issue of Triathlete magazine
Knowing what foods to eat to fuel your training is important, but to reap the benefits of the nutrients, it’s the when that really matters. Before and during a workout, your goal is to increase the delivery of nutrients to your working muscles to maintain glucose levels, postpone fatigue and improve your hydration status. After you’re done training, the focus shifts to replenishing glycogen stores and initiating tissue repair and muscle growth so you can bounce back even stronger for future workouts.
With the following fueling suggestions, I will help you reduce risk for GI distress and help you find yourself gaining a competitive edge.
How To Fuel Before Workouts
Eating something before a training session is critical, as it will better prepare your gut for race day and help you to become more aware of how your body absorbs and metabolizes fuel in varying intensity levels, durations and weather conditions.
Note: For an individualized approach on fueling your triathlon routine and to meet dietary needs, contact a registered dietitian (RD) specializing in sport nutrition. It should be noted that recommendations for fueling around workouts should be “as tolerated” and perfected by each individual over time.
Learn how to fuel for a track or swim session HERE.
Learn how to fuel for a brick or long run session HERE.
One of the most common setbacks for an athlete is extreme inflammation and the discomfort and restriction of proper range of motion that it causes.
When taken occasionally, athletes should not worry about side effects of anti-inflammatories, but religiously popping a pill before or after training or during racing is not advised. Long-term use or excessive intake may increase the risk for heart attack, stroke and kidney damage.
Many triathletes rely on pain relievers during an Ironman, which may do more harm than good.
Be sure to follow a smart training and fuelling regimen to develop a body that adapts well to training stress, instead of just swallowing a pill to mask any discomfort.