Stephen MacDonald - MTB Cyclist (UK)
Why did you want to work with a nutritionist?
I was training hard and not fuelling very well during and after my rides. Also I wanted to change my body composition and loose a little fat, When I was trying to do this without Ellen’s help I ended up seriously under-fuelling and feeling pretty rough and couldn’t train as hard.
Target Event - The ROC d’Azur 5 day stage MTB event in France
What were your key takeaways?
Carbs are your friend
The food diary will shock you, all the snacks add up!
I could race full gas (for me) for 6h and not have to stop for food
(A key aspect for Stephen’s plan was to build a race fuel schedule that would minimise stops along the race route.)
Eva D - Road Cyclist (IRE)
I couldn't recommend you highly enough. What you have done for me has actually changed my life for the better and I will be forever grateful to you. You are extremely good at your job and such a wonderful person.
How would you describe working with me as your Performance Nutritionist?
The best decision of my life. I surpassed all expectations in Castlebar and managed to take 3rd place in the National championship women's 40s category.
Jen Lemen - Road Cyclist (UK)
Why did you want to work with a nutritionist?
I wanted to better understand how fueling could become my race superpower ;) It was something that I had struggled with over the years and it was time to take the next step to use fuelling to enhance my performance.
Also, managing to find a way to stave off cramp!
What were your target events?
Originally the UCI Gran Fondo champs in Scotland, which I got to and rode in - feeling strong to the end of 160km. Also the National Master's Road Race and Crit Champs - a podium in both and a win in the latter this year were the icing on the cake. Fuelled by all the carbs and the advice that Ellen gave to me!
Iain Hay - Road Cyclist (CAN)
What were your target events?
I was training for Provincial road champs and National Criterium Champs. I won the Road Champs and was 4th in the National Criterium.
How would you describe working with me?
I found your approach, professional and also human, your knowledge of the sport of cycling and racing helped me relate. Your knowledge and direct approach give me confidence in the plan.
Ian Guevara - Road and Gravel Cyclist (USA)
Though I would not have considered it a possibility at the beginning of this journey, my proudest accomplishment is the improvements I have made in my relationship with food overall and my perceived body image. As an endurance athlete I had definitely prescribed to under fueling in the past and comparing my physique to other endurance athletes. The way in which you approached dieting and fueling really made it easy to understand and apply the lessons that one needs to eat to perform and that we are not here to "win a body-building contest
What was a key takeaway for you?
How planning, testing and executing pre-race day and race day fueling plans can elevate the overall experience of a race, regardless of the outcome.
Neil Robertson - Road and Gravel Cyclist (UK)
Ellen's expertly tailored nutrition plan helped me maintain a consistent level of energy throughout the day, significantly reducing the pits and dips that I used to experience. This newfound vitality not only improved my productivity but also enhanced my overall mood and well-being.
Most importantly, Ellen's expertise has had a direct impact on my racing performance. With her careful attention to my nutritional needs, I have become faster and more resilient.
Another unexpected yet incredibly valuable benefit was a marked improvement in my immune health.
Her knowledge, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients set her apart. I wholeheartedly recommend Ellen to anyone seeking to improve their health, performance, and overall quality of life.
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Ellen McDermott
BSc Dip PN UKAD
© 2022 McD Nutrition
