For a long time, I’ve wondered (been frustrated with) why I still have a ‘marvelous middle’ for all of the cycling that I do. Of course, I wish I rode more, but there is that whole job…starting a business…maintaining a relationship thing.
I could never put the math together in a way that made sense for my calories in, calories out. It ALWAYS seemed like I was in a deficit that should have led to some belly being shed….but I still have that extra ‘warmth’.
About two months ago, I read an article that sparked an interest in my metabolism as a potential cause.
I’ve done the VO2MAX test a few times when I raced to figure out what my body was burning at higher intensities, but never how efficient my body was at using fat as an energy source throughout the intensity spectrum.
The article (really…you should read it!!) mentioned that there were testing centers all over the place that offer this exercise metabolism test.
Google here I come….
In DFW the first I came across (and best, I have no doubt) is Metabolic Wellness. Angie Katz, and a partner (who’s name is Michelle, I think) offer the services at the Willow Bend Athletic Club in Plano.
It’s a test that takes about 90 minutes, and you can do it on your bike…a spinning bike…or the treadmill. It’s not measuring your VO2Max, so it’s not too stressful, and it will kick out a fascinating chart of data about your body’s use of carbs, and fat as energy when you’re working out.
It does turn out that my body is addicted to carbs while I’m exercising, and that I’ve been going too hard to let the fat kick in an energy source. Angie established a training plan to help my body get better at using fat, and her computer kicks out a really easy to read, handy chart:
…that gives hard numbers to my suppositions.
Plus, she’s a really cool lady. Completely understanding, knowledgeable, and non-threatening. I can’t think of this being a better experience. She’s a cyclist too, who’s spending some time off the bike b/c of injury.
The prescription is to be riding S-L-L-L-L-O-O-O-O-W-W-W a few times a week to kick-start the fat burning. I’ve always tried to go slow in the off season, but alas, never slow enough.
If you’re a rider in North Dallas, keep your eyes peeled for an iceberg (slow moving white object) on a Blue Cannondale. You’ll blow by me while I’m trying to shrink.
…and if you’ve always wondered why there was always more of you to love….get a hold of Angie. Best $215 I’ve spent on my health in years.
Hi Bob. This is Angie’s biz partner. Thanks so much for the great words!! We are SO glad that you enjoyed the assessment process and are pleased with the information. The program will work if you follow it. I had another cyclist that was in your position and improved fat burning about 50% by SLOWING down. She feels so much better during her rides now. Great stuff!
There is one correction to what you wrote though. The actual assessment is only about 15 minutes. Some might freak out about the 90 minute time frame
Best regards and thanks again! Can’t wait to see your next assessment.