As endurance athletes, we know (or we should know) that nutrition during the events and training is important. We or at least I do, spend countless hours calculating numbers and figuring out exactly how much to drink and eat and intake during each hour of training and racing.
However, about 6 months ago, I went to see a sports nutritionist (Dr. Chase Banks) for my day to day nutrition as well as race day nutrition. We have made some small tweaks and changes to my race day nutrition but my biggest changes have been to my day to day nutrition. He structured a plan that is specific to me, my body, the amount of training I do and my goals. I actually greatly increased the number of calories that I eat during the day, however, everything is the "correct" kind of calories for me. This is when I was first introduced to one of my now sponsors, www.healameal.com. Joe, at Heal a Meal works closely with Chase and prepares my meals exactly to his specification to help me achieve our goals.
I have gone back and have had several consultations with Dr. Banks. I just went back the other day, and I had gained 2 lbs. However, I had lost 2% body fat and increased my muscle mass by over 2%. After six months of working with both Chase and Joe, I can say that every day nutrition is just as important as race day nutrition. Have the proper diet has helped me recover faster and properly prepare my doby to be in the top form it can be. You can't put sludge in your car and then one time put premium and expect it perform to its top abilities.
I have learned a great deal about endurance racing and my body specifically over the past year. My nutrition is at the top of the most important.
