Jun 10, 2026 · 33 min
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. This Episode is Brought to You By Carb Culture Shop Grab your merch from the shop with saying that endurance athletes just get! This episode is brought to you by Thorne. Shop Thorne Supplements and get 15% off https://www.thorne.com/u/alexlarsonnutrition Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian https://alexlarsonnutrition.com FREE Carb Loading 101 Guide https://alexlarsonnutrition.myflodesk.com/carb-loading Oregon Trail Webinar Connect with Me: Instagram: @alexlarsonnutrition Website: alexlarsonnutrition.com Don’t Forget to Subscribe! Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes. Have Questions or Suggestions? Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!