POWER ACTIVE FOR CYCLISTS

POWER ACTIVE FOR CYCLISTS

Sep 04, 2019

Bicycling or biking is a recognised Olympic sport and has several categories like track cycling, road cycling, time trialling, etc.  On the other hand, it can be a recreational activity too for non-racing cyclists which include artistic cycling, freestyle BMX. Although, be it any type, every time you ride a bicycle the whole body is in action. This sport requires high endurance aerobic capacity and a great ability to sustain high power outputs. Anaerobic capacity is equally essential for performance in breakaways, hill climbs, and all-out sprints.

Depending on the category (i.e., sprint, track time trial, endurance), cyclists are either asked to cover a fixed distance as fast as possible or to go as far as possible in a fixed time (Catronova et al,2013). For instance, an individual time trial (ITT) is a road bicycle race in which an individual races against the clock and not riders.  They are usually held on a flat or rolling terrain, although sometimes in a mountain road and they aim to complete the course in a short time as possible.

A study showed that carbohydrate and protein supplementation during and post the cyclic event is associated with favourable influence on skeletal muscles (Lugos et al, 2016 ). Many muscles like the back muscles help keep the torso and head in the desired position and the shoulders muscles help reduce the load on the back and the pressure on the hands.  Whereas the stomach muscles are the counterpart to the back muscles and stabilise the pelvis and the back. The feet carry 100% of the body’s weight, making it imperative to have toned calves, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. To perform best, apart from having ideal body weight, proper and toned muscles, it's crucial to have proper nutrition.

Active cyclists are at great risk of developing protein, energy and micronutrient deficiency which can greatly affect their riding efficiency. A right dose of nutrition before the event can aid in recovery with needed energy and nutrient boost.  So supplements like Steadfast Nutrition Power Active which comes in a one serve sachet packaging, which is practically designed keeping in mind the convenience to carry and use while on the go. It has easily digestible proteins derived from milk ie, Whey protein concentrate and skimmed milk powder for fast absorption. They offer a complete profile of all the required essential amino acids, which prevents muscle loss and promotes synthesis. Also, multi-source carbohydrates coming from fructose (natural fruit sugar) and maltodextrin for instant and sustained energy, while no calories coming from sugar!

A serve of this perfect revitalising and recovery solution provides 16 gm protein and 14 gm carbohydrates.  It offers an ideal ratio of protein and carbohydrates along with certain essential vitamins and minerals which aids in replenishing the essential vitamins and minerals.  As there is a great loss of these water-soluble nutrients in sweat and they play an important role in hydration levels and avoidance of muscle cramps.

Additionally, L- carnitine a type of special amino acid acts as an ergogenic compound which delays fatigue and improves riding performance. A study done by Sung et al. 2016 has shown that it promotes oxidation of fatty acids, might reduce lactic acid build-up, has glycogen sparing effect and may inhibit oxidative stress by initiating endogenous antioxidant activity. Taurine is an antioxidant and helps improve immunity and reduces oxidative stress. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the chances of having inflammation.

An optimal balance in training, physique and nutrition are needed to experience true, riding comfort! Thus, Power Active is indeed a pro pre- drink for cyclers as it oxygenates and fuels the muscles for better endurance and improved riding performance. So riders be ready to more energetic, stronger and active you!

 References :-

  • Catronovo et al, 2013. How to assess performance in cycling: the multivariate nature of influencing factors and related indicators. Front Physiol. 2013; 4: 116
  • Sung, D. J., Kim, S., Kim, J. & Ahn, Hyun-Sung (2016).Role of L-carnitine in sports performance: Focus on ergogenic aid and antioxidant. Science and sports.31  (4), 177-188
  • Lugos,. Andrew. Et al. (2016). Supplemental Protein during Heavy Cycling Training and Recovery Impacts Skeletal Muscle and Heart Rate Responses but Not Performance.nutrients.mdpi.com

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