Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad CARB BOMBING | Controversial New Fueling Strategy in Pro Cycling | Dr. Will Girling | Ask a Cycling Coach 536
Jun 19, 2025
In this engaging talk, Will Girling, a nutritionist for Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe, shares his expertise on pro cycling nutrition. He introduces the controversial mid-race strategy known as 'carb bombing,' which involves consuming high carbs for performance boosts. Will discusses the importance of sweat testing and hydration strategies, especially in extreme heat. He also highlights the evolving understanding of sodium intake and its effects on athlete performance. Listeners gain invaluable insights into optimizing their nutrition for cycling success.
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Fluid Loss Testing Advice
- Perform a fluid loss rate test to estimate sweat loss during exercise in heat.
- Aim to avoid more than 2% body weight dehydration to maintain performance and avoid health risks.
Heat Adaptation Changes Sweat
- Sodium loss per liter of sweat can vary with exercise intensity and acclimatization.
- Heat adaptation reduces sweat and sodium loss as the body becomes more efficient.
Recognize Sodium Needs by Symptoms
- Use visual cues like salt stains on clothing to gauge if sodium loss might be higher than normal.
- Listen to recurring symptoms like headaches, nausea, or cramps as indicators for adjusting sodium intake.