As a runner, I’m always curious how other runners fuel. It’s about as varied as the music you listen to or even the clothes you wear, but I think you can glean something from everyone. I’m in no means an expert in this area, so you don’t necessarily want to mimic what I do! It’s honestly a lot of trial and error!
I don’t fuel DURING a run unless I’m going for 60 minutes or longer. I will carry water with me in the summer if we are gone longer than 45 minutes. I really like this for my longer runs. My running partner, Leslie, wears a water belt and she finds that very comfortable too!
Before I Run:
I have a banana and a half a piece of toast/bagel thin with a small amount of peanut butter. I also drink some water. We can’t forget the medications! I do pre-medicate with some Advil before my run because my knees can ache a bit during the run and after. (There are some studies that show you shouldn’t do this, but I haven’t had any problems doing it…yet!)
During My Run:
Last year was when I ran my first half-marathon. I came upon this brand of energy chews and Leslie and I really liked them, Honey Stinger.
They have been our go-to fuel until I tried the Clif Shot-Bloks a few months ago. I really enjoy both, but have been on a Clif Shot-Blok kick.
(Leslie stays with the honey stingers) The Stingers are smaller and easier to get down, but both taste great and do the job.
After My Run:
You would think that I’d be starving after a run. There are times when I am, but a lot of times, I’m just ready for my cup of coffee! Then about 20 minutes later, I’m ready to fuel again! I try to replenish with a mix of carbs and protein. (Eggs and pancakes. Peanut Butter and Waffles. Bacon and eggs. Etc) I also push down more water (and more coffee!) Sometimes about an hour or two after the run, I’ll have a small cup of chocolate milk.
There you go! A little glimpse into fueling!
What do you fuel with during a run?
My husband loves the Shot Blocks esp the ones wih caffeine for his runs.
With caffeine! Oh my goodness! I’d love to see myself on that–on second thought…maybe not!
Clare
Where do you find them? I’ve been slooooowly working into some longer runs and I’m realizing I’d probably do a bit better if I had something to refuel with. I really start to feel myself fade around mile five/six.
Yup! This will help, Sarah. I get them at Dick’s Sporting Goods or Second Sole!
Clare
Just to clarify, about how long before your run do you eat your “before run” fuel? And would this be for, say, a run early in the morning? Thanks!
Great question!! I should have clarified.
On my training mornings (Which is 99% of my runs! haha)it’s 30 minutes max. I should probably do a bit more, but I just can’t bear to get up earlier!! On race mornings it ends up being a bit longer due to logistics of leaving the house and getting to the race etc.
And yes–an early morning run. It’s rare that we do an afternoon or evening run. But when we have, we try to keep hydrated and I stopped eating around 2 hrs before the run. Again, not a normal for us though!!
i LOVE shot blocks, too! have you ever tried those gel shots? i love those too! i hope you’re ready for race day :]
I am the same way. Usually do not fuel unless I am running for 1 hour. I have tried a variety from Shot BLOKS to GU. They all seem to work well for me. Pre-run I like to eat toast w/PB.
I always want pancakes and eggs and bacon after my saturday morning long runs! Happy to hear I’m not the only one! 🙂