Question: My local bike shop carries half a dozen brands of sports drinks. Which one is best for cycling? — Todd S. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Given equal amounts of carbohydrate, most sports drinks work about the same. With few exceptions, they supply similar amounts of energy. So, the “best drink” is the one with…
Question: Last summer I guzzled four bottles on a hilly 75-miler. I just rode the loop again for the first time this year—in the cold—and drank only one bottle. Does cooler weather have that great an affect on fluid needs? Or was I just not drinking enough? — Steve S. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: No,…
Question: My brother is a hydration freak. He often drains his 100-oz. CamelBak before the ride is finished. If he runs out, he finishes dry. I ration my water and always make it last until the end. Which method is better? — Bruce A. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I’ve never seen research on this topic, but…
Question: I’m careful to keep myself hydrated. I drink two large bottles every 30 miles, using both water and sports drink. On a 50-mile ride, I refill both bottles, making up a new batch of sweet stuff with a pre-measured amount of powder. I ride with a friend who drinks about the same amount I…
Question: I ride long on weekends and want to fuel up correctly. Weekday training is fine because I’m limited to 90-minute rides. How much should I eat and drink before a ride of 50-75 miles, and how much time should I allow between eating and starting the ride? – Jerry K. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The…
