Performance vs aesthetics

[darius]

Hey Theo,

When you plan nutrition for sport athletes (power sports), what would you say the biggest difference is from nutrition for aesthetics. I understand caloric intake would be one variable to change. Would other factors need to change such ratios for example? Thanks for your input.

Darius

[Theo Papatheofanous]

D,

I would have to say present needs state obviously as far as performance goes...and what would be considered a mechanical drag vs proper fueling for performance.As far as ratios,depends on the sport and the individual.Many factors to consider and biofeedback becomes that much more important when considering performance.Most of my athletes make their living this way so if they can't perform with maximum intensity,well...there not worth much.But as far as specifics,caloric intake is where it's at and paying attention to the individual and his/her response over time.

Best,
Theo

[darius]

Thanks Theo. To keep on topic of performance, do you believe presence of carbs helps the recovery process between training and/or events? Let say if one is following pro/fat diet (as myself and I believe you do too), and the diet is implemented properly with carb-ups placed strategically, and another person is following more balanced approach (example 40/40/20), does on have benefit over the other as far as recovery goes (short and long term). I understand we have to generalize here.

I have also noticed few times you mentioned starting diets at 33.3 ratios and then going from there; at this point what is one using for fuel, fat or carbs? and how do you figure which way to go as far as protein sparing nutrients go.

Darius

[Theo Papatheofanous]

Darius,

Good questions;well anyone who understands human physiology and the way we expend fuel,will know that no matter what ratios,eventually if training is intense and consistent and properly applied,an athlete is always liable to deplete glycogen stores...this is INEVITABLE.Now how long it takes and what kind of time frame is highly dependant on activity and amount of energy expended...and as for using a more balanced approach,it's just one way to determine what kind of animal you are and what is your preferred fuel source...It's one of many ways (conservative) of doing it and I would recommend this way to someone trying to figure things out without a coach...it does take patience though...many many variables to consider.Hope this helps...

Best,
Theo

[darius]

Well it is understandable that doing sprints will differ from doing steady state cardio as far as energy systems go. I guess at the end of the day it’s not as much about which approach is being used, but more about how it fits as a ‘whole’ (diets/training/lifestyle/needs etc.) Thanks for your help Theo and hope all is well with you.

Darius

[Theo Papatheofanous]

Everything is well with me.In the groove right now and you're welcome.How's it going with you ?

Theo

[darius]

Glad to hear, judging by the pic on Scott's forum you are indeed doing great. Everything is going well here, first week back to the gym after 12 days off and man I tell ya, time off does wonders!! Keep up good work.

Darius

[hockeyplayer]

for myself Theo has me eating a whole bunch of food that helps me stay on track with my performance.actually,i've never felt more energetic,performance is always there at 110% (which was never the case before) and cosmetically i'm sporting a healthy physique.i can even see my abs for the first time and i'm eating well over 3500 calories on most days.Theo got me to a point where i can really handle my bodyweight and therefore my power endurance as Theo tells me are maximized.also,you're right darius,i've seen Theo close up man and he is shredded right now and very muscular.he looks great.

[elliana]

As a figure competitor,i have a balanced approach for sure.I get to eat evrything as far as protein,carbs and fat.I love it and never crave anything.I also get a few cheats now every once in awhile but I'm very happy with the way I eat,cheats or no cheats I could care less.This is my biggest improvement with Theo;no attachments to food,just fuel baby!!!!!!!

elli

[darius]

Thanks for chiming in guys. It is always good to hear others experience with different approaches. There are some good clues in your posts.


Darius