Originally posted by Chris L
Maybe I'm not the best person to comment as I don't really have an "off season". But to be honest, I just stuff my face with carbs constantly to ensure that I always have sufficient energy. I'm yet to experience any weight gain as a result of it. Personally I don't think there's any substance at all to the "carbs lead to weight gain" hype.
Norm,
When cycling regularly, I rarely gain weight. My main concerns are nutritional balance and having proper energy and muscle rebuilding nutrients available.
Cycling requires more carbs, it's just a fact of life. Just remember that when you aren't riding, cut back on the carbs a bit (cut back on
everything, really.)
When not exercising, I tend to get hungrier, eat more than I need and gain a little weight. So I try to avoid non-exercising periods as much as possible.