Stage races are a unique challenge. Unlike a one-day event where you can leave everything out on the course, stage racing requires balancing performance, recovery, and consistency over several consecutive days. In this episode, Alex sits down with Serena to break down the key nutrition, hydration, sleep, and training strategies that help athletes show up ready to perform day after day.
Whether you're preparing for your first stage race or looking to improve your recovery between stages, this conversation is packed with practical tips you can start implementing now.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Why Stage Racing Requires a Different Approach
The Nutrition Priorities for Stage Racing
Hydration Strategies That Support Performance
Recovery Between Stages
The Importance of Sleep
Training for the Demands of Multi-Day Racing
00:00 Introduction to Mountain Biking Skills
02:47 The Journey of Identity and Self-Discovery
05:36 Challenges of Stage Racing
08:19 Nutrition Strategies for Stage Races
11:00 The Importance of Recovery and Sleep
13:56 Traveling and Time Zone Adjustments for Races
17:55 Adapting to New Time Zones
20:42 Morning Routines for Stage Races
24:18 Common Fueling Mistakes in Stage Racing
27:51 Prioritizing Nutrition in Stage Racing
31:52 Training for Stage Races
36:17 Special Blend Gravel Camps
Guest Bio:
Serena Bishop Gordon is a professional off-road cyclist, endurance coach, and founder of Special Blend Gravel. With more than a decade of elite racing experience, including standout performances at Unbound XL, Oregon Trail Gravel Stage Race, Cape Epic, Breck Epic, and international UCI cyclocross events, Serena has established herself as one of the sport's most versatile and resilient athletes. Passionate about helping others thrive on and off the bike, she leads camps, coaching programs, and community initiatives that empower athletes through a person-first approach to performance, connection, and long-term growth.
Links for Guest:
https://www.serenabishopgordon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/serenabg/
This episode of Endurance Eats is brought to you by Alex Larson’s 1:1 Nutrition Coaching.
If you’ve ever wondered, Am I eating enough? Am I fueling this right? Why do I still feel tired? you’re not alone. Alex Larson Nutrition helps endurance athletes cut through the confusion and build a fueling plan that actually works for their training, lifestyle, and goals.
You can learn more at alexlarsonnutrition.com.
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