Mark Fulford writes: Recently I presented a talk to a group of budding athletes, with majority of this group are focused on completing their first Ironman. Some members of the group had a reasonable amount of sporting experience while others were starting from scratch.

Chris Carmichael with Jim Rutberg write Being properly hydrated has its perks. A well-hydrated body suffers less fatigue, fewer headaches, clearer skin, greater flexibility, and in general, puts you in a better mood.

Many of us are aware of the benefits of protein - it's ability to slow release of blood sugar, enhance muscular recovery, assist with weight loss, and perhaps most importantly, make our meals more interesting and tasty!

The last few weeks have been an exercise in restraint for me. Depending on how I feel when I wake up in the morning it is either on – meaning it’s go time for the training plan or it’s off – which means a casual morning with the paper is in order.

Our bodies are amazingly adaptable and have an enormous capacity to recover. The problem with athletes is that they often do not listen to their bodies. We are trained to ignore pain and persevere; this is the nature of endurance.

The miles were ticking away quickly as the brisk wind pushed us all the way back home. My fellow cyclist asks, “What are some good foods to eat after a hard five hour ride like today?”

Chris Carmichael, Founder and President of Carmichael Training Systems, writes: As an active guy in my forties, I feel a big difference from taking a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. I broke my femur right above the knee in a backcountry cross-country skiing accident in 1987 and endured four knee surgeries on my way back to pro cycling.

(continued from part II) Now that you have a good understanding of the synergestic components necessary for success in reaching your goals, let's see how they apply to the young multi-sport athlete named Flash, who has been struggling with fatigue during training and subpar performanc

Fat is the enemy right?

In last week's article, I introduced you to Mrs. T, the busy restaurant manager who seems to have her exercise and nutritional habits completely perfect, with a rigid fitness program and sound nutritional practices.