Alex’s Training & Nutrition: Behind The Scenes

Welcome to the final episode of season one of Endurance Eats! In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain to give you a behind-the-scenes look at my personal training, nutrition, and business, Alex Larson Nutrition.

My journey into endurance sports started shortly after college when I was looking for a goal to stay active. I signed up for a local sprint triathlon, thinking my swimming background would give me an edge. Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

I ended up doggy paddling the entire swim, riding a hybrid bike, and jogging the run—but crossing that finish line changed everything. The rush of endorphins, the sense of accomplishment, and the incredible race day energy had me hooked.

Fast forward a few years, I found myself training for Ironman Wisconsin, all while changing jobs, getting married, and moving. Not ideal timing, but that race was a pivotal moment—it’s when I realized my calling to help endurance athletes fuel their bodies properly.

Balancing Training, Business & Motherhood

As a mom of three, my life is like a never-ending Tetris game of scheduling—fitting in training, client work, and family time. After my third baby was born in 2023, I was determined to return to training and feel strong again.

I took a slow, sustainable approach:

• Focused on nutrition first—higher protein, mindful eating, and fewer skipped meals.
• Started running again in July 2024, getting creative with workouts while parenting.
• Transitioned to cycling in October—hello, structured training on TrainerRoad!

Through all of this, patience was key. My postpartum fitness journey wasn’t quick, but slow progress is still progress.

Dialing in My Nutrition for Performance

As a sports dietitian, I know firsthand that nutrition fuels performance. Here’s a breakdown of my daily fueling approach:

🌅 Breakfast: 50g+ Protein

• 3-4 oz smoked salmon on half a bagel + garden cream cheese
• Thorne’s Whey Protein Isolate– chocolate (affiliate link) + chocolate milk

🥗 Lunch: 40g+ Protein

• Rotisserie chicken on a Caesar salad with leftovers from dinner

🍽️ Dinner: 40g+ Protein

• I prepare our normal family meal and I’ll include an extra serving of lean protein, sometimes extra cottage cheese or chicken are my two usual to-gos.

🏋️‍♀️ Pre & Post-Workout Nutrition

• Fueling my training with carbs is non-negotiable
• Even 60-minute bike trainer rides include 30-40g of carbs
• On long rides, I’ll transition to hydration mixes and practice taking in gels while riding

Embracing the Cycling Life & Training Gains 🚴‍♀️

In October 2024, I shifted my training focus to cycling—and I’m fully hooked. Using TrainerRoad, I’ve improved my FTP (functional threshold power) by 23% in just four months (from 152 to 187). The structured training, flexibility, and data-driven progress have made me obsessed with hitting new cycling PRs.

But I’ll be honest—strength training has been my weak spot. I need to get back into it, even if it’s just 10-15 minutes a few times a week. My all-or-nothing mindset often gets in the way, but progress is progress.

What’s Next? Gravel Racing & Big Goals

The next big challenge? Gravel riding! 🚴‍♀️ I’m heading to Oregon in April for a gravel training camp to level up my skills before Le Grand Du Nord in May—a stunning 54-mile race along Lake Superior.

I’ve always thought of myself as a “just for fun” endurance athlete, but what if I push myself to hang with the fast riders? What if I actually go for a podium spot someday? This first race will be my baseline test, and I’m excited to see what happens.

The Future of Alex Larson Nutrition

I keep my business simple and focused. My priority is helping endurance athletes succeed through 1:1 coaching—because personalized support leads to the best results.

💡 Ways to work with me:

• 1:1 Nutrition Coaching – Our team is accepting new athletes!
• Fueling Guides & Masterclasses – For self-paced learning
• Fueling That Fits Online Course – A great entry point before 1:1 coaching

I also have a new project in the works for 2026—details coming soon!

Wrapping Up Season One of Endurance Eats 🎙️

This marks the end of season one, and I can’t thank you enough for your support, messages, and feedback. I’ll be reviewing analytics, brainstorming new ideas, and coming back stronger for season two in July.

Keep up to date with through Pancake Press newsletter!

Until then, happy training, happy fueling, and I’ll see you in the next season!