Ultra-Nutrition

So, I wanted to pick up where I left off last week. I think the conversation left off with the Africa climb when I was discussing obstacles in the ultra-training and execution. It was a long journey with many obstacles, which by the grace of God we overcame. Yes, I'm an overcomer!!!

One of our climb breakfast.

Now I'm going to talk Nutrition, relative to ultra distance running.

If you run far and train for the long run, it is vital that you pay attention to diet. Compare the marathon to an ultra and the time on your feet and the energy required to get to the finish. It is vital to know what you need and how you fuel the tank and what fuel you need.

In the marathon, what is bonking? It's not really a word (webster) but it's when you reach the bottom of the tank, no more gas. When that happens in a marathon or a tri you are done physically.

Fuel consumption is vital and knowing what and when to fuel is extremely important if you want to finish and finish strong. In ultra running it is even more vital to know what food (how your body tolerates liquid or solid, don't forget to include electrolytes) and how much you ingest.

I've done the 24 hr. 100-mile races and I can tell you it is a science and takes practice. Sometimes you don't feel like eating or drinking. You have to recognize you must force it.

Like marathons, or tri, ultra races have aid stations where you can refuel, or you can you carry your own. When we climbed Kili, the porters took good care of us. The higher we climbed, the more important it was to stay hydrated especially because it was alot dryer and your body sweat evaporated quickly so cooling was compromised. Hot marathons or ultras, like in the desert are very difficult to keep hydrated properly.

Like physical nutrition, spiritual nutrition is very important to keep you in the game and moving towards you finish line, whatever that might be. Could be studying for an exam, preparing for a speech, preparing you resume. It is a mental and spiritual feeding.

There is no better spiritual food that the Word of God. "Your words are what sustain me; they are food to my hungry soul They bring me joy to my sorrowing heart and delight me. How proud I am to bear your name, O Lord." Jer 15:16

When I stop sweating during a race, I know I'm in trouble. I drink and it is like nectar to my lips. When I really need God, his Word is refreshing to my soul.