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Lead Stories: Sunday, September 7, 2008

Tapering for Athletes and Ordinary Exercisers

Posted October 2nd, 2007 at 10:55 AM by Adam Berger

Section: Running & Training, Training Tips, Health & Fitness, Exercise

Tapering refers to the period just before a major race or game, when an athlete reduces workload to be in peak shape on the day of the competition. Ordinary exercisers can apply this training principle when they plan to enter a local race or charity event.

Top athletes must spend a tremendous amount of time training to be able to compete successfully. Their huge volume of work leaves them near exhaustion and before major competitions, they have to find the best way to reduce fatigue while retaining fitness. Many studies have been done to help athletes and coaches decide on the best strategy.

Researchers at the University of Montreal compiled the results of 27 scientifically acceptable studies. They concluded that the best duration of tapering is two weeks, the optimum training volume reduction is by 40 to 60 percent, and the intensity of workouts should be maintained (Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, August 2007).

Training load during taper: Almost all of the studies agree that athletes should reduce the amount of work they do. While each athlete must decide on his optimal reduction, many bicycle racers drop from up to 400 miles a week down to fewer than 200, and many runners drop from above 100 miles to fewer than 40.
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TFS Review: Vega Whole Food Energy Bars (Berry Flavor)

Posted December 9th, 2006 at 3:36 PM by Jenna Sumara

Section: Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Supplements, Product Reviews, Vegetarianism, Special Features, TFS Reviews

Below you’ll find TFS’s review of VEGA’s Whole Food Energy Bar. Vega is made by Sequel Naturals and was founded by Ironman Triathlon Champion and vegan athelte, Brendan Brazier.

Product: VEGA’s Whole Food Energy Bars (Berry)
Price: $2.95 (each)
Rating: Very Good 7.7/10.0
Pros: Clean and green; high in fiber & essential fatty acids; no refined sugars or oils; gluten free; easy to digest
Cons: Acquired taste, grainy consistency, too expensive
Overall: These bars took some warming up to and can be costly, but overall they are a very good choice for athletes, dieters, vegetarians, vegans and/or anyone looking for a healthy, all-natural supplement bar.

The berry flavored Whole Food Energy Bar by Vega is the most popular variety. The bar also comes in chocolate and natural flavors. These bars are not just the run-of-the-mill supplement bar; setting themselves apart by using 100% plant-based ingredients.
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