leebikes

I'm just getting serious about training for a hundred mile MTB race and a 24 hr race. I am wondering if there is a nutrition plan or book on the subject that anyone would recommend. Thanks.

MTBMaven

Not sure of any good books. Hammer Nutrition has some really good information on their site. Just read through the marketing material. Ultra Marathon Cycling Association has some nice stuff on their site as well, https://www.ultracycling.com/nutrition/nutrition.html I recently tried using a custom mix from Infinit Nutrition. I used it during two 100+ mile rides and a 12 hour solo MTB race where I did a little over 80 miles. I am now a convert and will be ordering a new bag soon. Good thread on Infinit vs. Hammer products on MTBR.

In general focus on three things: hydration (~20oz/hr), electrolytes, calories (200-300/hr). Find what works for you well in advance of your race.

Nutrition plans for a lap style 24 hr races are totally different than for a single lap 100 mile race. For my recent 12 hour race I started out with one large bottle per lap with 2.5 scoops of product then started carrying a second bottle with coconut water to help with cramping. A bit more on my nutrition for the 12 hour race on the MTBR site under mtnfiend on the second page. Obviously you will need a different plan if you don't have the luxury of using your own pit. You will want to carry your own products with you for use at the race pits.

I also find that my nutrition plan is different for endurance road events where my average heart rate is much lower than endurance, lap style MTB races. I can consume more solid foods on the road events whereas I need more liquid fuels for the higher pace MTB races.

I too hope to do my first 100 MTB race this year, though I will be racing myself really more than anyone on the course.