Ultimately 2 years of trial and error and I have refined the backcountry taco into a masterpiece. Some of the final touches included switching from corn to flour tortillas and a very unconventional use of the reactor stove. The results- mouthwatering.
I am 2 weekends into 3 weekends of backpacking and have been geeking out about meal plans. To be honest, I always geek out about food and nutrition (no surprise). Eating in the backcountry shouldn’t really be different than how we eat at home. Our balance of macros (fat, protein, and carbs) and sources should be similar. The problem is, many of us don’t know how to balance macros at home and this carries over to the backcountry.
My trip into the Palisades in the California Sierra involved a very BIG day of almost none stop movement. Sometimes you plan these days out well in advance, sometimes it’s a spur of the moment trip. As we packed, I grabbed some easy win trail snacks.
So how does caffeine affect us and how do we use it to improve energy and performance?
It best helps your performance when you DON’T use it all the time. Take note that I didn’t say that you never use it. But I am going to talk about cutting back and using caffeine strategically. Why should you reduce your caffeine intake? It has to do with how stimulants affect the body and our energy level.
Homemade sports drinks are easy to make, cheap, and infinitely better for you than the store-bought options. Not only can you avoid the added high fructose corn syrup, but also the chemical flavorings, color additives and other lab-based substances. You can also make nutrient dense sports drinks to fit your needs and taste.
YES! If you were looking for confirmation to keep chugging that oh so tasty protein drink (sick) you got it. But also keep in mind that timing and forms of protein matter as much, if not more, for adequate recovery, muscle growth and energy. Here are some tips on protein needs for endurance and outdoor activities.
This topic has been on my mind a lot over the course of this extra hot and smoky summer in the Sierra Nevada. The best way to hydrate yourself during physical activity isn’t likely the way you’ve been previously taught (Hint: It isn’t pure water, nor is it Gatorade). I’ll give you one simple ingredient that can make a world of difference to hydration.
A larger drinking glass or pourable container, filled with water
Another glass, filled halfway with water
Celtic or Himalayan sea salt
A lemon
Trace Mineral Drops {something similar to this}
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