Donating Blood

[David Lombari]

I think this has been touched on recently but I can't find the thread so I thought I'd raise the question again.

I've given blood before (though not since I've been cycling) and wanted to do it again, especially as it seems to be the only way to find out your blood type.

However, I'm sure I've read somewhere that it affects (or effects pedants??) your ability to exercise fully for some time after.

Is this correct? If so, I may wait until later in the year to do it. I can't afford to lose any more fitness!!

[huw williams]

Unless you've entered some serious pro-races you're not going to notice much difference - just have a day or two off. I used to feel a bit sluggish but I think it was all in the head, now I always ride the day after.

Hey maybe there's some kind of legal blood doping system here - take red blood cells OUT of your system, get used to training like that, and as your body replaces them you'll get that much stronger. So that's how Discovery get awa... ...maybe not

[Phil N]

David,

I regularly give blood a couple of times a year. Like Huw I dont think it will be a problem unless you attempt some heroic ride just after donating. I usually try to give blood early in the week so that I am recovered for any weekend activities (bike related I mean ). I still commute on the bike though and have ridden to and from the donating session.

Go for it David, I am sure you will have no problems.

Phil.

[Tamar]

In the past I've given blood in the morning and then gone to the gym at lunchtime and been fine for an moderate session. Don't expect to be able to work at max, but fine for just general workout.

Probably not wise to enter a race, but shouldn't be a problem for normal exercise. Judge it by how you feel though and if you do happen to feel light-headed...stop, get something to eat and drink, and leave it until the following day.

[David Lombari]

Thanks all, I'll get it sorted.

[the other Steve Dennis]

Apparently my British blood isnt good enough for the American Blood Bank - something to do with Mad Cows!!!!

[Jon H]

I'm sure a couple of the nurses had Kazakh accents last time I went to donate.

You're allowed to donate every 4 months, but that means one of them is bound to fall slap bang in the middle of the racing season. I usually skip that one and donate twice a year; after the season ends and before it starts again.