Cycling Nutrition: 5 Things To Avoid Before A Race

Cycling is a demanding sport that requires a combination of physical fitness, mental stamina, and strategic preparation. While training is essential, what you eat in the hours leading up to a race can significantly impact your performance. Avoiding certain foods and habits before a cycling race is crucial to ensure that you're at your peak, both physically and mentally. 

Here are five things to steer clear of before you hit the starting line.

1. Heavy or high-fibre meals

One common mistake cyclists make is consuming a heavy or high-fibre meal shortly before a race. 

While fibre is an essential part of a healthy diet, it takes longer to digest, and a belly full of fibre-rich foods can lead to discomfort and bloating during intense physical activity. 

Opt for easily digestible carbohydrates like rice, pasta, or bread a few hours before the race to provide a quick energy source without overloading your digestive system.

2. Experimenting with new foods

Race day is not the time to experiment with new foods or energy supplements.

 While you may be tempted by the latest energy bar or gel on the market, introducing unfamiliar foods can lead to digestive issues or allergies, jeopardising your performance. 

Stick to foods you have regularly consumed during training to avoid any unpleasant surprises on race day. Familiarity breeds confidence, and confidence is key when pushing your limits on the bike.

3. Excessive caffeine intake

Caffeine is a popular performance-enhancing substance, and many cyclists rely on it to boost alertness and endurance. 

But consuming excessive amounts of caffeine before a race can have negative effects. For example, jitteriness, increased heart rate, and even gastrointestinal distress. 

Moderation is key; limit your caffeine intake to a reasonable amount, and avoid energy drinks that may contain high levels of sugar and other stimulants. Timing is also crucial – try to consume caffeine at least 30-60 minutes before the race starts for optimal performance. 

In the long term, it’s best to reduce coffee intake on race days and rely on more traditional and long-term sources of body fuel to keep you going on race day.

4. Insufficient hydration

Proper hydration is a fundamental aspect of cycling nutrition, and inadequate fluid intake can significantly impact your performance. 

Dehydration can lead to fatigue, cramping, and reduced endurance. Avoiding sufficient water intake in the hours leading up to a race is a common pitfall. 

Make sure to hydrate adequately in the days leading up to the event and continue drinking water consistently on the day of the race. Electrolyte-rich drinks can also be beneficial, especially in hot and humid conditions.

5. Overlooking pre-race timing:

The timing of your pre-race meal is as important as the composition. Eating too close to the start time can lead to discomfort and may divert blood flow to the digestive system when it's needed elsewhere. 

On the other hand, going too long without eating may leave you fatigued and lacking the necessary energy. 

Aim to have a balanced meal 2-3 hours before the race, with a small snack 30-60 minutes prior if needed. This approach ensures a steady release of energy without overwhelming your digestive system.

Fueling success for peak performance

Your pre-race nutrition plays a vital role in your cycling performance. Avoiding heavy, unfamiliar foods, excessive caffeine, insufficient hydration, and poor timing can contribute to a successful and enjoyable race day experience. 

Remember that every cyclist is unique, so it's essential to experiment with your nutrition during training to find what works best for your body. By paying attention to your pre-race nutrition, you'll set yourself up for success and increase your chances of achieving your cycling goals. 

Use your common sense and speak with fellow cyclists to develop an understanding of what works for others, and use that information to inform your own dietary choices on race day.

Are you interested in progressing your cycling skills, or want to get started but don’t know where to begin? Check out our cycling packages for personal coaching and 1-on-1 assistance.