Richard Cranium

Here's an article that tells everybody - everything they'll ever need to know about cycling and nutrition. Since the weather is pretty rotten for many of us, why not take a minute to read through the article and comment on some of the "facts."

I have several concerns about the content of the article and some of the advice it contains.

https://thesportfactory.iuplog.com/de...sp?item=226718

howsteepisit

Nice article, as long as you keep in mind it is a propmotion for HAmmer products

BloomBikeShop

Yeah, I like Hammer products, but all the "no simple sugars, period!" stuff is a bit hyped up.

Thanks for the link!

Richard Cranium

Steve continues to refine the sales pitch. And for the most part, the text continues to improve in accuracy while not getting bogged down in technical terms.

There's a fundamental lack of balance in describing the possibility of meeting an athlete's needs without using sport-specific products.

But hey, what do you expect from a commercial. I've never seen a drug commercial touting exercise and stress-reduction as a means of headache remedy.

!!Comatoa$ted

It seems like good information if you remember what he says in the first paragraph; that, you are an individual, and you have to find what works for the individual. Also some interesting points for further study. Too bad there are no references.

Personally, I disagree with the fluids being the main source of energy during a ride. Of course I do not race and never have. I find that solid food during a ride helps with after ride revcovery. I am much less spent if I nibble constantly during rides than if I just drink fluids. As well, I have never tried the supplements that are touted by the article.

'nother

You don't necessarily have to race to appreciate that. For many people, it becomes very difficult to deal with solid food during long (>2-3 hours) and/or hard efforts. It's also a lot more convenient to put your calories into your fluids, since you're going to need fluids anyway (it's not enough, but I'd rather drink some carb drink + a gel than plain water + a lot of bars). That doesn't mean you shouldn't eat solid foods, if you can. But fact is, many people can't, and don't, so getting what you need via fluids becomes essential.

I've tried the Hammer stuff and it is okay but I'm not convinced that it's any better or worse than competing products. It does have a unique *flavor* (they use xylitol, a sugar alcohol, for sweetening...so "no simple sugars", but that is kind of meaningless anyway). The lack of super-sweet stuff makes it is easier for some people to continue drinking over long periods, which is important.

They are pretty good at marketing the stuff, too. I don't doubt that their claims are somewhere rooted in fact or backed up by studies, but you have to remember they're trying to sell product. It is natural for anyone doing that to use certain facts to their advantage, and to not mention contradictory stuff.

!!Comatoa$ted

I understand what you are saying. As well, when you can get your calories from fluids on the bike there is less of a break in your riding, and it is much less of a hassle to get your 'lytes and other essentials in fluid form, since you have to drink anyways.

I usually carry lots of water because I seem to get a bit queasy when I drink too much of anything else on the bike. I am not a big fan of gels and bars, but I like to bring dates and bananas with me. On longer rides I nibble every 15 minutes or so, and if I am going through more than my normal amount of water I make sure to eat more. I like the power bars and such as a back up; if for some reason I am on the bike longer than expected, I have a very dense calorie source with me.

This is why it is good for the individual to discover what works best for them, and to experiment and tweak the programme to find the best fit.

'nother

What I'm saying is it's easier for some to get nutrients in fluid, rather than solid form, and that this issue has nothing to do with whether you race or not.


We do not disagree on this point.

dbduke

I have Dr Bill Misners book. While I did not read the article I will say this. That book seems to be the foundation of Hammers literature. As far as fueling practices it helped a lot. Hammer has gotten a bit over the top lately and the dollar signs are all I think they see.

kuan

Finally vindicated! When I was younger, 13-18 years old, I used to get these horrible migraine headaches that prescription drugs couldn't control. To combat them I'd go on a run and after about 3-4 miles they'd be gone!

BloomBikeShop

That exercising thing is almost as crazy as eating fruits and vegetables to stay healthy instead of eating junk food and some diet pills.