Cyclists have an obsession with weight. The problem is only getting worse as modern riders are looking for any kind of marginal gains possible. The extensive use of the power meter has made speaking in terms of watts per kilogram of body weight part of everyday cycling language. We can calculate exactly how much better professionals and our competitors are than us.

This obsession with weight has led many cyclists, both elite and amateur, to develop an unhealthy relationship with food. Nearly every single person that I’ve discussed this with has been able to relate in some way.

Comparison Culture

We live in a comparison culture. We are constantly comparing ourselves to our friends, family, competitors, even our former selves. This happens both consciously and unconsciously.

We see the training other people are doing and convince ourselves we are not doing enough. It’s the same with food. We see the amount or types of food others are consuming and make assumptions about ourselves.

My husband is nearly a foot taller and 60+ pounds more than me. We are not going to have the same food requirements, even if we are training the same number of hours.

Food requirements are influenced by many factors such as:

• Activity level
• Type of activity
• Age
• Gender
• Height and weight
• Body composition
• Genetics and health status
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Constantly comparing ourselves to others takes the joy out of life. Food (just like training) should be considered on a person to person basis. Just because someone is skinnier than you, does not mean that they are healthier or stronger than you. We are all built differently and have different ideal and sustainable body weights.