Ketones have become an increasingly popular supplement in endurance sports in recent years. They are considered the 'fourth macronutrient' alongside fats, carbohydrates and proteins. The use of ketones has been shown to improve recovery and sleep in elite athletes.

"Within the Visma | Lease a Bike team, we leave nothing to chance. We want to optimise all the factors that influence our riders' performance. This includes the nutritional strategy", says Martijn Redegeld, the team's performance nutritionist. "The use of ketones is part of that. We have several years of experience with this supplement, and we are positive about the effects. After taking ketones, riders recover better from a hard training session or race because the body's fuel stores are replenished faster. Sleep quality also improves. In this way, we increase training efficiency."

Until recently, the Visma | Lease a Bike team purchased the ketones. Thanks to the collaboration with Ketone-IQ, this is no longer necessary. "Ketone-IQ is an excellent partner for the Visma | Lease a Bike team", Redegeld continues. "Not only do they supply us with supplements, they are also a valuable sparring partner. Together, we research the effects of ketone supplementation and look for ways to improve and innovate the products."

The use of ketones within Team Visma | Lease a Bike is not new, but it is certainly not standard. "We tailor our nutritional advice to each individual", Redegeld says. "Each rider has their own nutrition plan, tailored to their physique, training schedule, race schedule and personal preferences. We refine this plan based on weather conditions and the rider's role in the race. This applies to everything the rider eats and drinks, including ketones. We only use them regularly for those riders who really benefit from them."

Michael Brandt, CEO of Ketone-IQ: "We are very proud to be working with the most successful cycling team in the world, Team Visma | Lease a Bike. We share the same ambition to be the best. We are happy to be able to contribute to the development of strong and healthy riders and to achieve top performances in the sport."