Nutrition/Hydration question - long

[Catrin]

Do you have a heart rate monitor? For me, I know I start to go downhill when I hit the 500 calorie mark. I've yet to find anything that doesn't sit well with me while riding, so I guess I'm fortunate. Love Shot Blocs, even the Jelly Belly sport beans give a little boost. On long (50+ mile) rides, a peanut butter sandwich works wonders. Don't worry about the Camelback, my brother wears his. I usually like to carry one bottle with water, and one with Gatorade. I find that after 20 miles I need to start replacing electrolytes. Anything shorter than that and I'm ok with just water. Of course, you don't want to wait until you're hungry or getting tired and cramping to eat. You'll have to learn at what time you have to ingest something to avoid getting to that point. It will take you some time to figure out what your body needs and when.

I do have, and use, a heart rate monitor - that is a good idea to note about when I start heading downhill where calories are concerned. I haven't forgotten about electrolytes - and thanks to everyone for their thoughts on this. Considering I generally ride alone it seems wise to put some thought into this as my rides get longer

I am also getting a stem bag for both of my rides so I have room for whatever I decide to take with me. I think the 'Bak will be enough on my back

Zen - thanks for the link and will check it out for my Trek. One of the reviews says that it is still possible to have a medium seat-bag at the same time, but it might be someone with a seat-post that sticks up a mile