The Strade Bianche is a race that includes some uncommon variables to the competitions taking place in Southern EuropeThe route doesn't give you a moment's respite, with the dirt and dust, but also the climate and strong winds. We asked Filippo Zana of Bardiani-CSF how he approached the Tuscan event in terms of food strategy: before, during and post race. In the opening photo it is clear how the Venetian rider had I also wrote down the various steps in relation to nutrition on the handlebars.
From a nutritional point of view, does a race like the Strade Bianche require special preparation?
It sure is a different race, much more similar to one from the North and must be managed as such. A lot depends on what you've done and how you've raced in the previous days. For example, I did the Gran Camino stage race and the Trofeo Laigueglia immediately after. After the latter, I tried to recover and stock up on glycogen by prioritizing carbohydrates. This was also the case the evening before the Strade Bianche, where we ate mainly Pasta and potatoes. A little chicken., but in reduced quantities.
Are there any variables you take into consideration based on the weather forecast?
When a cold day is forecast you try to eat something more, but without exaggerating, before and during the competition.the body consumes more and this additional consumption, when you're always with your head down, makes itself felt. This year's Strade Bianche was cold and windy And the goal was to never run out of space. We also try to stay covered, especially at the beginning, trying to save some money.
And what about Saturday breakfast?
We had breakfast at 8,30. I fed myself with some porridge and an omelette made with 4 egg whites and a single yolk, but with a little ham. And then a little coffee.
What did you eat during the race?
The Strade Bianche is very complicated, really difficult to manage as far as supplies are concerned And then you're always at full speed. It's hard even to get close to the flagships. We had studied integrating 100 grams per hour, between sugars and carbohydrates in general. Mainly gels and maltodextrins in water bottles, I left with my pockets full of gel. For example, I didn't eat solid foods, but I continued to drink and take 1 or 2 gels every hour. Every water bottle It had about 80 grams of carbohydrates inside. I didn't drink any carbonated drinks, which I usually do when there's a main supply.
How did you fuel after the race and in the hours afterward?
As soon as I got off the saddle I took a recovery shake, glutamine and proteins, all prepared by the masseurs. Then we gradually started eating rice salad with tuna. In the evening I treated myself to a lovely Florentine steak.
How long does it take your body to recover from a Strade Bianche like the last one?
A Strade Bianche makes itself felt the next day, because it stays in your legs and you're tired. In fact, on Sunday, I took a day off. I think it takes 48 hours, even though after a day the body starts to metabolize and feel better. Today, for example, I went for a leisurely walk for a couple and a half hours and tomorrow I'll start training again. A little gym time to keep up. strength and a bike ride.
