Nutrition Nutrition Nutrition: Keeping it Simple

I haven’t been following any super strict or regimented nutrition plan for the past few months, but I am feeling really great about how I’ve been eating.  This is mostly due to the fact that I’ve spent the last 12 months doing some serious work at researching food plans and clean eating.  I’ve tried a number of different self-created programs with some really great success.

When it comes to going on nutritional auto-pilot, however, I like to keep in mind the three simple steps I outlined earlier this year.  It’s amazing what a massive difference eating clean makes in terms of both the results I get from my workouts and my energy level in general.

A few months ago, I ponied up and bought the Precision Nutrition program.  In case you’re unfamiliar, John Berardi is a world-class nutrition and exercise expert, with a Ph.D. in exercise biology and nutritional biochemistry.  I have been reading his articles for the past year, and I can say without doubt that he absolutely knows what he is talking about.

A Little Taste of the ‘Crusade (Cyclocross Video Footage)

A quick update to yesterday’s race report, and some video candy.

Turns out I placed 19th in a field of 58 which isn’t as terrible as I’d thought. Hell, I’ll even go so far as to say that I’m happy about it! And in case you’re one of those readers who has no idea what I’m talking about when I talk about all this cyclocross crap, here’s a little taste of what went down yesterday at Alpenrose Dairy in Portland, Oregon.  I’ve also included some photos at the bottom of this entry.

A preliminary quick edit by Crank My Chain:

Did You Hear That Bell? Schools Out!!!

I prayed for rain.  Seriously – I prayed all night long.

The weather report last night said 70% chance of rain and I thought, “Oh my god!  God still loves me!!”

And then today… nothing.  Not a goddam drop.

I guess god is still really still be pissed off at me for sleeping with my church camp counselor ‘cuz he didn’t squirt out a single little shower for me last night or today.  Nothing.  Nada.  Zip.

I Guess I Shouldn’t Be Surprised: Marion Jones Joins the Heartbreaker Club

I hate this shit.

I just want to get it out there.   I really do.

I hate sticking my neck out every day and trying to convince people that competitive sports provide this amazing opportunity and outlet.  I hate the little Pollyanna optimist in my gut that keeps getting kicked in the teeth every time another athlete gets nailed or finally admits to doping.

Dogs Really Can Smile: A Running Moment

I’d never noticed the house before.

Small house. West side of 37th street.

I might never have noticed it, but I was flying down the street at full speed having just escaped my house for a much-needed nighttime run. I was flying down my street and the pavement was wet and shiny underneath shoes that probably need replacing.

I noticed the house because of the dog.

My Inner Jock is Winning.

Yesterday I wrote about my new Batavus Old Dutch and my attempts to appease my inner-fashion-whore by riding to work like a proper lady in heels and such.

This morning I got back from a grueling boot camp session, downed a delicious Jay Robb Vanilla Protein Shake with some glutamine and frozen blackberries, and went down into the basement to form my daily bicycle plan of attack.

I looked back and forth between the stately and elegant Old Dutch, and my gnarly, battle-weary LeMond Poprad.

Before I knew it, my inner-jock had kicked my inner-fashion-whore in the shins and began to scream, “She’s down! She’s down! Grab the Poprad! Let’s get out of here!!!”

Who are These European Bike-Commuting Hotties and How Do They Do It?

Ok, I give. I’m calling this one out.

So, many readers of this site will be unaware of the fact that I am very into fashion. My look is understated, and I wouldn’t call myself a fashionista, but I follow the industry, know my brands, have a specific point-of-view, and always review runway shows. All this to say, I’m an avid reader of The Sartorialist and one of the things I love about his site is that he frequently shoots women on bikes.

These women are always wearing something effortlessly flawless, often with high-heels, dresses, big scarves and large sunglasses. I love them. It’s ridiculous, I know. But I do.

Like Pumpkin Pie? You’re Going to Love This Festive Jay Robb Protein Shake

I know what you’re thinking.

And, no, I don’t work for Jay Robb.  I don’t have a reseller’s agreement and I’m not even an affiliate.   I just happen to think they’ve got some really rockstar products.

Among them?

Yammit! Energy Nuggets

I happened to get my hands on some Yammits a while back and I have slowly been experimenting with all of the glory that they can bring. Here’s my latest post-workout shake that has Sally singing praises.  Just in time for my favorite season – a protein shake worthy of the Pumpkin King:

Barlow, Thy Name is Mud

This year, cyclocross is a completely different ballgame.

I’m confident.
I have a team.
I’m not afraid.
I’m hungry.

No. I’m ravenous.

To Cyclocross Season, With Love.

It’s here.

It’s finally goddam here.

Cyclocross.

My first race is tomorrow. I’ve been home from my three week world tour for 2 days. I’ve been on my bike 2 days in the past month.

I could give a shit.

Wanna know why? Where do I start?