When it comes to going for that win when you are a cyclist, it is much more than the mind frame. You have to go to bed early, hydrate enough and fuel your body not only with enough calories, but also nutritious foods that will keep you going throughout the entire race. Many professional cyclists share their stories regarding the diets that they have to maintain in order to win that big race at the end of the day. Filling your meals up with this advice can also put you on the same track to winning, each and every time.

Getting Enough Fuel with Calories

A cyclist will burn anywhere from 3,500 to 4,000 calories on an average tournament, though some larger tracks might consume as much as 6,000. Having enough calories in your day to burn off is essential. Before the race, having a large breakfast numerous hours before the race so it can digest is the biggest part of getting enough fuel. Choosing healthy, filling options is also recommended. With everything from oatmeal, flap jacks, and eggs, to whole wheat, corn, or rice cereal.

Since racers will tend to race for days on end, it is essential that they eat almost every hour. Consuming around 300 calories while on the bike as the day progresses keeps them going. Energy bars filled with protein, gels filled with carbs and real food such as boiled potatoes, small sandwiches and other protein and carbohydrate rich foods are also provided. These foods help them keep up their energy while on a bike ride, but also ensure that they can keep going for days at a time.

Pre-riding meal planning is generally done ahead of time, as well as meal planning while on the bike, and then meal planning for recovery time after the tournament has finished. While all three are important, the recovery period can be even more so to ensure that you can take on the next cycling ride that is offered to you. Recovering your body after a long haul can put you back on the bike in no time.

Learn more about cyclist meal planning.

Hydration Can Be Key for Cyclists

Depending on the weather around them and the terrain they are cycling on, cyclists can drink anywhere from one to three 16-ounce bottles of water every hour that they are out there. While some may drink sports drinks, some might choose to go with Coke, or other sodas; water is one of the most recommended due to the fact that it hydrates quick and it will not leave a sugary residue on the outside of the teeth.

Some may even use a pre-mixed drink of their choice, however, this has to go through testing to ensure that there are no drugs or other substances used inside the bottle. Generally, these mixes are protein rich and pack a lot of hydration benefits and come from the sponsors that work with the cyclists that are doing the races. Having the proper hydration also ensures that the muscles do not cramp up, because they can easily become stiff or fatigued during even the shortest of races. Preventing cramps while on a ride can go a long way.

Don’t Forget the Right Cycling Products

There are also numerous interesting things that every cyclist loves that help to make their rides go a bit smoother for the long hauls. From all the best options in cycle helmets, bike gear and body armor to cycling goggles. However, the smoothest rides begin with choosing the best gear from the AVIP collection of bike gears for pro cyclists. Being prepared for the ride, and also for your comfort with long cycling trips, is essential. Every cyclist learns that they need to be able to reduce the chaffing, and minimize discomfort when taking on long journeys.

With high-end gear, the cyclist is able to take on the race, while also being able to remain comfortable. Riding should be fun by being protected and making sure you have the right nutritional support for race day. You also need to make sure your hydration needs are met; the right gear can also go a long way in the process. The AVIP collection has a wide range of gear to choose from for the avid cyclist.

Whether you are cycling for fun, or for a tournament; being prepared is an essential component when it comes to choosing the right food and hydration for your cycling needs. Of course, cycling is more than a sport and many cyclists that are serious about the rides that they take on will also have to dress the part. With a comfortable collection of clothing, as well as safety products; the cyclist is able to get much more from the rides that they go on. Fulfill all of your cycling needs with the items that were meant for the professional cyclist in all of us.

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