High-Protein Snacks For Cyclists
All cyclists from those doing the Sunday morning club run, to triathletes, know that proper nutrition is important to their performance. High-protein snacks are perfect for providing sustained energy throughout long rides and can aid muscle recovery after the ride has finished. This article will look at the role of high-protein snacks and look at some of our favourites, here at Westbrook Cycles.
The Importance Of High-Protein Snacks
Protein is used by the body for muscle repair and recovery, particularly after intense rides. It helps rebuild muscle fibres and reduces recovery time, allowing you to get back on the bike faster and stronger. High-protein snacks are also used during rides to maintain energy levels and help prevent fatigue.
Best High-Protein Snacks For Cyclists
Here is a list of our top 3 best high protein snacks for cyclists. Not only have these been selected because they are an excellent source of protein, but also because they taste great!
Clif Nut Butter Bar Energy Bars - Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter
- Benefits: These Clif bars have the goodness of peanut butter in a convenient energy bar. They offer a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates, so they can be used both during exercise for energy and after exercise to aid recovery.
- Usage: Ideal for a quick snack at a mid-ride coffee stop or as a recovery food post-ride.
Namedsport Total Energy Fruit Bars
- Benefits: We've chosen these as they are made with real fruit ingredients, and provide a quick energy boost along with essential proteins. They are available in a variety of lovely flavours such as Chocolate Apricot, Cranberry, and Fruit Tango.
- Usage: Eat as a mid-ride snack or a pre-ride energy boost.
- Benefits: A great tasting post-ride recovery drink, this contains whey protein and carbohydrates, which aides muscle recovery and helps to replenish energy stores. Available in Berry, Chocolate, and Banana & Vanilla, it's a tasty way to ensure you're ready for your next ride.
- Usage: Best consumed immediately after intense rides to maximize muscle recovery.
High Protein Vegan Snacks
Being plant-based doesn't mean you should miss out! More and more cyclists are converting to veganism, and with a growing selection of vegan products available, it's a great time to give it a try. Here's our favourite high protein vegan snacks for roadies:
High5 Plant Based Recovery Drink
- Benefits: This plant-based recovery drink provides a mix of protein and carbohydrates from vegan sources, ensuring that you get the necessary nutrients without compromising your dietary choices.
- Usage: Ideal for post-ride recovery.
- Benefits: These bars offer a high-protein content with a soft and chewy texture, perfect for a satisfying snack that supports muscle recovery, and comes in a number of flavours.
- Usage: Great as a post-ride snack to help with muscle repair.
Incorporating Snacks Into Your Routine
To get the most out of your chosen fuel, it is important to understand the best time to eat and drink it, in order for you to maximise its effect on your performance.
- Pre-Ride Nutrition: If you have time before your ride, a light, high-carb snack such as a piece of toast with peanut butter can provide the necessary energy.
- During the Ride: You should aim to eat small amounts of food every 20-30 minutes to maintain energy levels. Energy bars and fruit bars are perfect for this.
- Post-Ride Recovery: After your ride you should focus on snacks that combine protein and carbohydrates to aid muscle recovery. Recovery drinks and protein bars are excellent choices.
By adding these high-protein snacks into your cycling routine, you can ensure you're always fuelled and ready for your next road bike ride.