Start on Empty 🫙
Don’t start on empty, they say, whether you’re talking about a kid heading for school; an adult going to work; or a cyclist starting a long ride. They’re always saying that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, after all.
When I’m heading out on the bike, I usually don’t start on empty; but now and then I have a morning when I just don’t feel like eating. That’s when on-bike eating becomes more critical. I do not need to try to ride almost 20 miles with nothing to eat!
Fuel as You Go ⛽️
I take a fuel as you go approach to rides over 12-15 miles long. It seems to work better than riding without eating for 15-20 miles; then chowing down a whole energy bar in a few seconds before I resume pedaling.
When you’re riding long distances, your your heart and legs have first dibs on your blood supply; and that leaves less blood available for digestion. This is especially true if you’ll be riding hard; or if you’re doing an all-day event, such as a century.
They say, during such an event, keep rest stops short. Pick out what you want to eat; resume riding; then fuel as you go. If you hang around a rest stop for 15 minutes, eating all the while, you’re only too likely to have a very uncomfortable stomach — or worse — after you resume the ride.
I don’t see myself doing a century ride in the near future, but I practice eating while riding. As I extend my daily distance, that’s all the more important!
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ABOUT ME
I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story.
I live in New Orleans; and retired in January 2023. More time for cycling!
Website designed by Cecile Levert
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DISCLAIMER
I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.
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