Stéphane DELMAS
Stéphane DELMAS, extreme sportsmanWinner of the Grand Trek in Chile, 2007: a 275 km race in the Atacama desert.
Every year I take part in about thirty races, ranging from the Ironman marathon to cross-country skiing. These races are training for a grand trek in stages in which I take part every year. Since 2002 I have run in increasingly difficult races: I started with the Sand Marathon, then I continued with Thailand, Norway, Jordan and finally Chile. My ultimate objective is the "Annapurna Mandala Trail" in 2008: 320 km on foot across the Himalayas at an altitude of over 5,500 metres !
Depending on the difficulty of the event, it takes a minimum of 3 to 6 months preparation before the start. During this phase, I don't follow any particular diet. On the other hand, once on the trail I pay close attention to my diet: It would be a real pity not to finish the event because of stomach problems.
For anything more than a semi, before every start I find it important to have sufficient energy intake to overcome any risk of a loss of power. The Cakes, in addition to being nice for breakfast, east easily assimilated and cover my long term needs.
In addition, don't forget the vital importance of water intake.
Water loss of 2% leads to a reduction in performance of about 20%.
To avoid that, I always drink before feeling thirsty and in small sips. For long-lasting exercise, Isostar Long Energy drink suits me perfectly.
In addition, don't forget the vital importance of water intake.
Water loss of 2% leads to a reduction in performance of about 20%.
To avoid that, I always drink before feeling thirsty and in small sips. For long-lasting exercise, Isostar Long Energy drink suits me perfectly.
A little "tip" to finish: the first half-hour following the finish is very important for body regeneration, every minute counts. So when I take part in a competition where I know that the body is going to suffer, I prepare myself the chocolate Recovery drink before the start: in this way I can drink it as soon as I cross the finishing line. I generally drink 2 bottles in the first half hour following the finish.
A marathon is not a barrier, no distance is unachievable: any distance can be considered if you prepare for it!!