What Fuels You?
Honey Stinger Organic Energy Food Was the Ticket!
I’m always questioning myself as to what energy food and water to bring during one of my adventures. How long will I be gone? How much energy output would I be doing? What do I need to supplement so I don’t bonk?This adventure was a 42.8-mile road bike ride that took 2 ½ hours in 90+ degree weather. According to Strava my energy output was 1,054 kJ and I burned 1,175 calories. In preparing for the ride I filled up my two water bottles knowing I could stop to refill if needed, as I wasn’t venturing too far from civilization. I put some energy blocks, energy bar, and was excited to try a new Honey Stinger Organic Waffle and Organic Energy Gel.
The ride started from Glenwood Springs to Carbondale on the Rio Grande Trail. Then continuing onto Hwy 133 via the bike path towards McClure Pass. This route is a great spin ride with minimal elevation gain. I stopped at the Crystal River KOA to dunk my head in the river for a little cooling off and to re-energize with some food.
At this point in the ride it was over 90 degrees outside and I was just about half way. I grabbed the gingersnap waffle, which was light, easy to chew, and had great flavor. One of the benefits of honey to eat during any kind of endurance adventure is the carbohydrate for fueling the muscles and delays fatigue. I’m trying to get rid of refined sugar in my diet so having a natural and organic alternative was ideal. There is only 160 calories in a waffle so I knew I needed more. So I grabbed the chocolate energy gel to add another 100 calories with electrolytes to boot! Nummy! (It didn’t have a pasty textures as others I have tried. Bonus!)
Off I went feeling a well-needed boost to finish the ride, as I popped a few energy blocks to maintain my output through the remaining 20+ miles I had to go. There is just something about riding a bike that feed my sole. I enjoyed the views of the valley floor, the company of fellow bikers and the tranquility of nature. (Ok, and the need for speed.)
