[Previous entry: "Renewed Hope"] [Next entry: "A New Bike! I’m Blown Away!"]
08/31/2006: "Bike Racing"
A triathlon is really 3 races, one after the other. Though next Sunday will be my first triathlon in over 20 years, I have participated in tons of races. I started racing in the pool when I was 12 and continued through college. In high school I got into Cross Country and raced distance all four years. So I am pretty comfortable with 2 out of the 3 races. Cycling is a whole other story and seems the most complicated. There is a lot to learn and experience will help. To accelerate the process, I bought a book called Bike Racing 101. It has been informative for a rookie like me.
Last night I came across a section in the book called, “Twelve Rules for Healthy Daily Eating.” Not only is it valuable for athletes, it can apply to everyone. And it is very similar to what I have posted here in the past. Competitive cyclists are very conscious of weight as pounds off the waist is less weight carried up the hills.
1. Cut out all processed sugars. (eat lots of fresh fruit instead)
2. Seek balance in every meal. (protein, complex carbos, vegetables and/or fruit)
3. Drink a lot of water before you eat.
4. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables
5. Salt is OK (unless you have a history of high blood pressure)
6. You don’t have to clean your plate.
7. Eat in courses. (start with small portions and go back if you are hungry)
8. Don’t eat to be polite. (compliment the chef with words instead)
9. In restaurants, assemble a meal of salads and appetizers.
10. Reduce slowly. (better to lose ½ or 1 pound a week)
11. Identify your triggers. (watch out for comfort food)
12. Weigh yourself daily and average the weight weekly.
Another word about water: Naturally, for athletes it is doubly important. Blood actually thickens as you become dehydrated thus making it tougher to get oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and making the heart work harder.
