Question: Watching the Tour de France this year, I noticed riders picking up little bags with a shoulder strap at certain points on the course. The commentator said this happened in the “feed zone.” I know the bags contain food and drinks, but what exactly are the pros using? — Patsy C. RBR Replies: It depends…
Question: I’m fairly fit and ride about 120 miles a week. Year before last, I lost 45 pounds on a high-protein diet. I ate carbohydrate at only one meal a day. This was the first time I had been able to lose weight consistently. The problem is that I can’t sustain a long ride at…
Question: Last winter I adopted a low-carbohydrate diet and lost 20 pounds. I’m continuing the diet but wonder if lack of carbs is the cause of my struggles on the bike. While I’ve improved my average speed on solo rides, I can’t keep up with my friends on Sunday morning. I’m fine when the pace is…
Question: I’m 6-foot-5, 180 pounds, 10% body fat, 46 years old. Is it a rational objective to lose weight to become a better climber? I love to eat, so it’s hard to avoid the goodies — especially if depriving myself won’t help me improve. — Doug S. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Weight loss when you…
Question: Last year I began doing intense indoor training intervals. I noticed a very strong ammonia smell moments after the end of the workout. Then I read in your column that this smell is a sign of overtraining and cannibalizing muscles. Yikes! How much time do I need to take off the bike once I notice…
