If you’re an avid traveler and motorbiker, chances are that you’re spending most of the day in the saddle, wandering from one corner of the country to the other. While this lifestyle may suit you and your passions, most of the times you will find it hard balancing your body needs with the long rides.
As much as you would enjoy the feeling of absolute freedom when the warm summer wind is blowing through your face going 60 mph, looking after your body needs is not a priority.
Ask yourself this – how often do you stop to take a break and simply admire nature’s beauty? How often do you stop for a full meal or a quick snack when you start feeling hungry? How many times do you stop for bathroom breaks? And how much water do you drink when riding for more than 5-6 hours a day?
Below you can find a list of foods that will boost your energy levels, help you focus better on the road, and keep you satiated without having too many calories.
Maple syrup
Before any long ride, most nutritionists recommend having a rich meal without being too hefty. In other words, you should eat well, pack on proteins and carbs to boost your energy levels but don’t overdo it either.
Maple syrup is linked to a series of benefits during exercise, including maintaining blood fluid levels that prevent muscle cramping. This ingredient is rich in minerals (mainly sodium and potassium) and electrolytes, keeping you focused while riding.
However, any excess sugars are bad for your health in the long term. Consumed in moderation, mainly before a long ride, in the morning, maple syrup can have a beneficial effect on your body.
Fatty fish
Counting for less than 1 gram of fat and more than 15 grams of protein per 100 grams serving (3.5 oz.), fatty fish is one of the healthiest food choices you can make before a long ride with your motorbike.
Salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, but also crab meat are full of minerals and fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6 which have strong anti-inflammatory properties and speed up body tissue repair. Fatty fish prevents muscular cramps while boosting your energy levels thanks to the high amount of proteins contained.
Fish meat also packs immunity-boosting minerals like copper, selenium, and zinc, meaning you will become stronger, healthier, and less likely to catch a cold from that strong wind.
You may want to eat salmon, scallops, and crab meat for lunch, especially if you have a long road ahead.
Real veggies
If you don’t have much time to stop for a full meal while on the saddle, you will need to make the most out of your snacks. Make sure to pack real fruits and veggies with you for the ride to boost your energy levels and be packed with vitamins and minerals that can help you focus more and better on the road.
Real veggies like celery, carrots, and bell peppers are the best options while on the road because they can last for days, even without refrigeration. They can be eaten raw, with only a dash of salt and pepper on top or by dipping them into hummus and butter for a snack rich in proteins and beneficial oils.
But no matter what you eat, you always need to take enough time off to properly rest and hydrate. Make sure to also check your bike before any ride and make any necessary repairs by lifting your bike on a good jack, like the ones found on YoungChoppers.
