Nutrition for walking and endurance challenges
Although this is easily over-looked, what you eat in a long term endurance event is extremely important - no marathon runner would consider just eating a sandwich and then going, although this is exactly what the majority of long-distance walkers seem to do!
What to eat on an event such as the National 3 Peaks Challenge is especially important as it is a 'stop / go' activity - therefore you will need to consume a balance of slow burn food, as well as quick acting short term energy boosts to get your body going at the start of each of the three peaks.
Short term energy foods
- Chocolate
- Sweets
- Some fruit
- Summary: High in suger and / or simple carbohydrates
Long term energy foods
- Nuts
- Pasta
- Meats
- Cheeses
- Summary: High in protein and / or complex carbohydrates
At Mobile Adventure, we provide our groups with a balance between these two food groups, as well as ensuring that you receive two hot meals during your challenge (3 Peaks), as well as another good meal at the end of all our Mountain Challenges. This ensures that your body has enough fuel to keep going, and makes your Mountain Challenge that little bit easier - Please beware providers who just stuff sandwiches down their clients!
What you drink is equally important - research has shown that 2% dehydration leads to 20% performance decrease - certainly enough to make the mountains feel even harder! This is because our bodies require water to 'burn' the fuel contained in food. If you are eating correctly you really only need to drink water, you certainly don't need some all singing energy drink - it is far more important to drink enough. A general guide would be around 2 litres per mountain, more in sunny weather.
