Among the many nutritional advice you will find on my website, focusing on the discipline you practice is interesting. Indeed, you don’t prepare for your sport in the same way depending on whether it is a weight-bearing sport (cycling, mountain biking…) or a non-weight-bearing sport, a multi-stage sport (Marathon des Sables) or a single-day sport (triathlon, running…), or even sports with regular competitions (football, rugby…). The same principle applies between explosive disciplines and long-distance disciplines (ultra-trail, Ironman…).
In addition to these distinctions between disciplines, you will find articles on my website about nutrition in race preparation (weeks and months leading up to the race), during and after the race (energy products…). Consuming energy products is important, especially after 1 hour of effort. It’s a physiological need, but it’s important to control this intake and not let marketing dictate an average energy drink, gel, or bar.
That’s why I explain the importance of different nutrients and active ingredients, helping you understand why some are essential. I provide numerous tips on sports nutrition. A balanced diet remains one of the best guarantees of success.
Many athletes have food allergies (or intolerances) (lactose, gluten) or are vegetarians, so I have written articles on these dietary regimens to help you optimize your nutrition.
Lastly, as a dietitian in a cardiac rehabilitation center, I offer nutrition advice with a clinical focus.
Common Questions on Nutrition for Different Disciplines
How does nutrition differ between a long trail run and a marathon?
The foundation of nutrition is the same, but what changes is the timing of physical exertion and the week leading up to the event. A long trail run can last between 8 and 24/48 hours, while a marathon lasts 5 hours. Consequently, the body needs to be prepared, particularly in terms of glycogen stores and optimizing refueling strategies.
Is it important to consume refueling options?
Consider that, after 1 hour of exercise, the body needs an external energy supply to perform optimally. From there, either you have what you need with you or you’ll need to optimize refueling options. Of course, in semi-autonomous races, managing refueling becomes much more complex as you have to balance energy intake and personal taste preferences.
Nicolas AUBINEAU
Sports Dietitian and Clinical Nutritionist
