Beet me to it

 

Apparently, beetroot is the new hit.  Organic, of course.  I learnt this from friends who know a thing or two about stamina and one of whom currently receives a beetroot each week in her delivery from Abel & Cole.  So now we know what to do with it.  In fact, she attributes her victory in Sussex a fortnight ago to the delightfully 'earthy' tasting deep claret coloured juice.  That and a steady regimen of turbo training over the winter months.  

 

Not bad for someone who was recovering from post chemo surgery just 5 months ago.  Watch out ladies on two wheels, with the supercharged power of nitrates Charlotte will be unstoppable.

I could have used some beetroot this morning.  My clockwise laps round Richmond Park required much effort.  My legs seem to have forgotten how to move, and I got overtaken by more than my usual share of cyclists on their leisurely weekend outings.  

Beetroot juice has been shown to boost performance.  The secret weapon lies in the nitrates which improves the efficiency of a rider's muscles and cardio-vascular system resulting in higher power output for the same level of effort against a non beetroot juice drinking control rider.  Tests carried out at Exeter University showed that, on average, the beetroot powered riders were 11 seconds quicker over the 4k distance and 45 seconds faster over 16km. 

How it works...  The nitrates have two physiological effects.  They widen blood vessels reducing blood pressure and allowing enhanced blood flow.  Secondly, it affects muscle tissue, reducing the amount of oxygen required by muscles during activity.  The combined effects have significant impacts on performing physical tasks, regardless of the intensity of effort.    

So, bring out the beetroot.  Sam's sure to be on it tomorrow.