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Nutrition for Athletes
Started
by Susan S
on March 19, 2010
So I'm concerned....... as a competitive athlete (runner/sprinter) I worry that I'm not going to get enough nutrition to support my training......
Susan! You're just in luck!
There's a book out there just for YOU! It's called Thrive, written by professional Ironman Triathlete Brendan Brazier. It focuses on a long-term eating plan that will help you develop a lean body, high energy, sharp focus, and just overall boost your physical and mental health. He discusses foods that are "high net-gain nutrition" - these will decrease the stress on your body and give you much more energy to support competitive training. In turn, your body will recover faster and allow for increased muscle, durability, and endurance in a shorter time.
It really is fascinating to think about how/what we eat affects us - this book tells it all. Quick and easy recipes for energy bars, sports drinks, and recovery puddings, not to mention other delicious smoothie and meal recipes. Covers all of your bases and has you feeling in control of your body and training.
Please please please, buy a copy and let me know how it works for you. I am athletically active (but not a competitive athlete like yourself), and this book has really driven me to take control of my eating habits: pre- and post- workout, and, honestly, just overall. I feel like I'm able to do a lot more than before. Trust me, you'll be just fine finding adequate nutrition for your training - even beyond!
Best of luck with it!
There are two books thrive and thrive fitness, both are amazinging useful to have around for resource and recipes. His products (Vega) are also amazing vegan meal replacements for what its worth. I got mine on Amazon for wicked cheap. They are a must have for us vegan athletes =)
We use Vega as a regular workout staple in our home as well. My husband and I are both athletes as well as just plain ol' fitness enthusiasts and we find with a good round vegan diet that we have no problem getting all the nutrition our body needs and more. We get more of the protein and other nutrient intake now, than when we did with a free-for-all diet.
The 'Thrive' books are fantastic, also a resource in our wellness library and great for inspiration.
Thank you so much everyone!! I ran out a bought the Thrive books and it looks to be exactly what I need. I'll keep you all posted on how I do!!
I just saw this post and I am so glad that you bought those books. I have them both and they are not only full of useful information but the recipes are really great, as well. I now make myself a Thrive smoothie every morning and I have a bunch of different energy bars in my freezer. I don't run professionally but I do run marathons (for fun) and I have found that Brendan's information and foods have been incredibly beneficial to my training. Good luck!
Hey thanks Melodie!
I'm just starting to experiment with the Thrive recipes. My training has been going well so far so he must be right!
Ha! Only a real runner says, "I do marathons just for fun!" That's great!! When is the next race for you?
Be well,
Susan
Good day everyone and happy EARTH WEEK. I just wanted to add that I am a 52 year old full-time fitness instructor and personal trainer for the past 30 years. I teach classes of every kind, from Pilates and yoga to high intensity cardio and boot camp type classes. I have NOT eaten a four legged animal in close to 20 years and I have been eating a totally plant-based diet for the past couple of months and feel healthier and stronger than ever. As a regular blood donor I watched my iron levels go from low to excellent over the course of my vegetarian journey. Much more iron is derived from greens than from anything else. I used to worry about getting enough protein before I became a vegan, but between the protein in our veggies, grains, beans and tofu, I am sure I am getting more than enough. My energy level is great, sometimes, like yesterday teaching 3 classes and training, often with, my clients. My health is thankfully perfect. My bloodwork and vitamins are all normal as per my checkup last spring.
Bonni~YOU ROCK!
Susan~I'm borrowing Thrive from a friend & have also just started playing around with his concept. I'm sure you've already seen these, but just in case http://vimeo.com/3342160 His recipes looks amazing--let us know which you love best--I don't know where to start :). Also, you might be interested in one of my album posts under my profile: A Kind Send. I'm not a runner per say, but perhaps my experience will boost your motivation to stick with this further. It is possible for us to stay strong & full of energy while being kinder to our bodies & our planet; some days, it just might take more effort & awareness--but that will only make us better than we would have been otherwise, right? Happy Earth Day!
Cheers!
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