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Keto/low carb definitely works if you can keep it going!
Climbing seems like it wouldn't be affected too much from low carb, due to less impact on cardio?
High tempo running/cycling or other endurance focused sports however...
Acliff-
Reducing sugar aids certain CV functions IIRC. Sugar reduces red blood cells ability to transport oxygen. Having done a bit of digging it seems that low carb athletes often do top up carbs depending on training/performance needs. For a fat biffer like me, it doesn’t make any difference. I’d love to get back to running, especially with the weight coming off, but I just don’t have the time at the moment.
As for keeping keto going, I really think the key is to have carbs/treats regularly enough that you’re not losing your mind. Eating keto/low carb 90% of the time and managing to maintain it long term is definitely better than going full extreme keto and burning out after 3-4 months (which is precisely what I used to do). No point fantasising about pizza for weeks on end, when one cheat meal a week isn’t going to massively upset progress and will keep you sane/motivated to stick to the diet.
Nef
It is the magic of keto/low carb.
Sugar is a hell of a drug!
And puffed pork scratchings are a perfect low carb swap for crisps. I reckon my salt intake is likely pretty worrying tho.
Another perk is that my climbing is definitely starting to see the benefits. Not much of a surprise that dropping 7kg makes it easier, but I reckon cutting sugar does a decent whack for athletic performance too.