4 Things Your Body Is Trying To Tell You


Michael Finch |

Four things your body is trying to tell you during a ride – and why you should pay attention. – By Selene Yeager

Image By Jason Gould
Photograph By Jason Gould

STOMACH

“I will commit mutiny if you guzzle more sports drink.”
Drinks that contain fructose are usually the culprit. Fructose isn’t as rapidly absorbed as other sugars, says dietitian Donna Marlor. Too much can cause gas, bloating, or diarrhoea.

READ LABELS: Look for beverages that contain about 28 to 39 grams of sugar per 500ml bottle. And aim for a mixture of carbs: You want a drink that lists glucose (or maltodextrin) before fructose.

KNEES

“You rely on me too much.”
Cyclists tend to neglect their glutes, says ­exercise physiologist Allison Westfahl. Strong butt muscles stabilise your hips and prevent your knees from rolling inward, which can cause pain.

BOOST YOUR GLUTES: Lie on your left side, legs together, knees bent in front of you. Keeping your heels together, lift your right knee as far as possible, then lower. Do 10 to 12 reps, then switch sides.

HEAD

“We can’t go this hard any more.”
Your brain’s primary job is to protect you, says exercise scientist Prof. Tim Noakes – which is why it can force you to slow down even when you still have fuel in the tank and fresh muscle fibres in your legs.

PLAY MIND GAMES: “Your brain calculates within the first metres whether it’s going to be a good day,” says Noakes. “Decide out of the gate that you’re going to do it.” Once you start doubting, you’re good as done.

FEET

“I need wiggle room.”
Cycling shoes are meant to be snug so your feet stay put and transfer power directly into your pedals. But feet are a cluster of sensitive nerves, and prone to hot spots, numbness, and pain.

SOLE STRATEGY: Look for shoes with a higher, wider toe box. Place metatarsal inserts just behind the ball of the foot to spread the bones and keep nerves from pinching.

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