MOUNT ORD
By: Coach Arnie Fonseca Jr
Tags: Fitness, Adventure, Hiking, Trailrunning, Health

Running Free Down Mount Ord, Arizona

As of writing this blog, I have four weeks until my date with Mount San Jacinto, better known as Cactus to Clouds. But in my case it’s Cactus to Clouds to Cactus. C2C2C. In this weeks blog I’m going to answer some questions on my overall nutrition, adventure nutrition, running strategy and how I love challenging the status quo.

My Nutrition Strategy

Well let’s just get right to the issue of Nutrition. I believe that this topic will and does drive most people crazy. And I believe it probably carries more weight than your training. Now, that’s only my opinion as an Exercise Physiologist and adventure Runner.

So, hold on to your seat. Remember that when we think we know it all, that’s the time to pause, open your mind and start learning. Easy to say hard to do.

Over the last 40 years I’ve done every possible diet/fad. I’m just curious along with being a bit crazy. Regardless, it really doesn’t matter as long as I’m healthier and can perform better. The rest is meaningless to me!

So, if you have a nutrition ajenda, this might be tough. I have been doing a lot of fasting, paleo and ketosis over the last 3 years, with great success. But recently with my eye surgery and other issues I have stalled in my nutrition/weight progress. Since I don’t like like the status quo. I had a new project.

I ran in to a very bright young Medical Doctor, Paul Saladino,MD. Who’s lectures on the Carnivore Diet are not only convincing, but at the least make you curious as to what we perceived as facts. Remember open mind.

I decided over two weeks ago after listening to numerous Dr. Saladino lectures and Zack Bitter, an elite ultra runner and Carnivore advocate, helped to push me over the edge and go for it on my C2C2C quest.

So, like Zack I’m using a modified Carnivore plan with some strategic carbs, mainly sweet potatoes, white rice and even some honey sprinkled in depending on my training.

Over the past two weeks I have eliminated most everything except, beef, sardines, oysters, some eggs, a chopped onion and other strategic carbs mentioned above.

My goal is 4–6 weeks. I know that I’m taking a risk. But this weeks big test, Mount Ord, gave me some valuable feedback!

I will continue to provide feedback as I go. And for those who want more information. Google Carnivore Diet. You’ll be surprised what you find with those affected with depression, anxiety and other autoimmune issues. Remember open mind!

Adventure Nutrition

Mount Ord provided me with 9 hours of training to test most of the pieces of my C2C2C Adventure.

Here’s a quick summary. I used a pre-workout shake of pre mixed BulletProof Coffee. A new Keto Shake. Beet Root powder. Blended with ice and consumed about 90 minutes prior to my Mount Ord Adventure.

I then had one packet of Almond Butter after the first summitt. Roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.

Next, after descending nearly 4000 feet and 7.6 miles. 15.2 miles total, I had another BulletProof Coffee, pre-mixed, Bone Broth Protein Powder, Beet Root powder and some extra collagen. All mixed in a shaker cup.

After taking this with the temps climbing, I had no stomach issues. I was ready for the second climb.

After Power Hiking back up nearly 4,000 feet and 7.6 miles. Again in 2 hours 30 minutes. I had 6 small figs. Which was more than enough! BTW I drank 20 ounces of water coming up the second time. I had 20 ounces on the first trip up and down.

Time To Challenge Myself

From the top of Mount Ord you are provided with 2.5 miles of smooth dirt road back to FR 27, which is more of an off-road trail with lots of varied terrain.

Perfect for testing your down hill skills and get some valuable leg turnover over 5 miles! I decided since I was feeling so good physically to let it loose the final 5 miles to the bottom, with the exception of a classic “Superman” fall about 3 miles from the bottom, it was awesome.

I also received some great leg soreness from the downhill, which I was able to do 9/10 minute miles, but knowing that I’ve got a solid month to recover. Also some much needed feedback for my strength work.

Joy

Being able to spend the day with my amazing partner and son n law, Felix Ortega. Not only provided some much needed calming spirit from Felix. But also the Joy of experiencing something for the first time. Mount Ord. But mostly the bonding that crazy adventures will provide for everyone. It’s that craziness that creates the amazing memories! Thanks Felix!

Challenging The Status Quo

Once again Coach Arnie is “Challenging the Status Quo!” And I love it. I figured out a long time ago it’s when I think I know everything, it’s really when I need to open my mind and be willing to learn.

Easy to say but hard to do! it’s really how I approach each adventure. I like to ask questions. What did learn? What do I need to learn? What can I do better? How can I teach this to others?

Mount Ord Summary

First off. Pay close attention to the turn off to FR27 on the Beeline Highway. Once you turn in. Just park on the side. Provide space for others. Go towards the fence where the sign says, “Replace Gate.” Begin your 7.4 miles to the Summit and 3937 feet of climbing. For a round trip of 14.8 miles.

On this day Felix and I did 30.6 total miles and 7874 feet of climbing. The weather was perfect. The memories were amazing!