Health, when it really matters.
What a round-the-world sailing voyage teaches us about health.
99 days alone on the ocean. Wind, waves, lack of sleep and thousands of kilometres to the next port. Sailing round the world is one of the greatest physical and mental challenges there is.
Yet it is precisely under these extreme conditions that insights emerge which also apply to everyday life: health doesn’t just kick in when challenges arise. It begins long before that – with good preparation, consistent care and the ability to support the body even under stress. Together with professional sailor Oliver Heer, we take a look at four situations that show why health is often the most important foundation – out at sea and in everyday life.
The importance of nutrient intake during prolonged exertion
99 days alone on the ocean. No breaks. No substitutes. No reset. The body must remain at peak performance for many weeks on end. Lack of sleep, a restricted diet and changing conditions put it to the test even further. Good nutrition therefore doesn’t just begin once the strain is already there.
“At sea, I can’t wait until I’m exhausted. I always have to stay one step ahead of my body.” Oliver Heer
Anyone facing prolonged physical or mental demands needs a solid foundation of health. A balanced intake of micronutrients supports, amongst other things, energy, muscle and nerve metabolism.¹,²,³
Recovery without breaks
How do you recover when the race never stops?
At sea, there’s no such thing as finishing for the day. No sooner has one challenging situation been overcome than the next change in the weather or the next manoeuvre is already waiting. Recovery therefore doesn’t just take place after the exertion, but must be possible whilst it’s happening.
“You learn to make the most of every quiet minute. There’s no such thing as perfect recovery.” Oliver Heer
Recovery is a continuous process. Magnesium and amino acids support muscle function² and energy metabolism³ – especially when there’s little time left for recovery.
Nutrition under extreme conditions
Heat, cold, humidity and limited food options: out at sea, provisions must be planned well in advance. Anything missing during the race cannot simply be bought later.
“Everything I need must already be on board.” Oliver Heer
Under extreme conditions, any potential gaps in nutrition cannot be made up for on the spot. That is why it is worth planning ahead and providing targeted support for the body even before periods of intense exertion.
Knowing your limits to maintain performance in the long term
During a race, Oliver Heer only sleeps in short bursts. At the same time, he bears full responsibility for the boat at all times and has to make important decisions constantly. Concentration and quick reactions are required even when tired.
“Over time, you learn to trust your body – but also to respect its limits.” Oliver Heer
Sleep influences recovery, concentration and performance. Micronutrients such as magnesium and B vitamins support the normal functioning of the nervous system.³
1 Vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2, B6, B12 and C, as well as biotin, calcium, iron, iodine, copper, manganese, magnesium, niacin and pantothenic acid contribute to normal energy metabolism.
2 Magnesium, calcium and vitamin D contribute to normal muscle function.
3 Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin and biotin, as well as magnesium, contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Sports
Regular exercise offers numerous health benefits, but it also places demands on your body. The more intensively you train, the greater your need for nutrients – both macronutrients and micronutrients.