5 tips to fill up your tank before a backcountry day
February 18, 2021 / By nicolas
Credit : Mylaine Robichaud
To be ready for the powder snow and cold winter weather, you need to make sure you fill your tank with nutritious food. There’s nothing worse than having to end a day of snowboarding because you’re hungry or exhausted. First, make sure you eat well before you start work. If you’re going to climb a mountain on a splitboard, don’t go on an empty stomach. A few hours before departure, prepare a meal full of carbohydrates. Vegetables, nuts, dairy products, etc… Carbohydrates provide the energy necessary for the proper functioning of the central nervous system and working muscles. They also prevent proteins from being used as a source of energy and enable fat metabolism. But above all, what you have to keep in mind is that it’s not the descent that will be exhausting… it’s getting to the top. Keep in mind that you’ll need about 150 calories every hour to function at peak performance. So pack your bag with a real meal and snacks.
Credit : Jean-Philippe Nadeau Langevin
Before your ascent, here’s what you should put in your backpack:
-A full water bottle Although it may seem insignificant, you should not forget to bring a water bottle before venturing into the mountains. Ideally, fill a thermos with hot water and a thermos with cold water. – A sandwich Nothing better than a good sandwich or wrap as a meal during your big day. Since the author of these lines is not an outstanding cook, here are some sandwich suggestions, according to Rei Co-op. – CLIF® BLOKSTM Energy Chews Small and easy to put in your coat pockets, CLIF BLOKS come in the form of 33 calories chewable cubes, making them easy to eat on extended outings. – CLIF® Energy Bar Filled with carbohydrates from organic ingredients, CLIF energy bars offer wholesome ingredients for performance nutrition – this bar is built for your adventures, big or small.Credit : CLIF
Of course, the space in your bag is not unlimited, but we encourage you to bring multiple snacks along your adventure for any unexpected needs.