Food for running

[WackySoph1999]

So I'm on week 3 of couch to 5k, and I usually go an hour or so after I've woken up for my run. I always eat breakfast first

Anyone got any suggestions on whether to eat before or after the run, the time to wait before running, and what's good to give me energy for the run?

Thank you for any help guys

[struass Graduate]

Hi, I usually run in the morning not long after I get up. I don’t eat, just have a huge drink of water.

If anything I’d think a banana would help with a slow release of energy.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

All your queries are covered in the guide.

Enjoy your journey.

[WackySoph1999 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you for that, just read through and everything on there is so helpful!

I really appreciate the amount of information, and it is veyry conaise and to the point. Definitely will take it all on board, especially water and food related. Thank you! ❤️

[Dolphin-Girl]

Hi I don't like eating much before running but bananas and other fruit are good. Bananas give energy and carbs and if you just some beforehand...

I anyways take a protein vitamin shake so I have some beforehand.

I think it's easier to run without having had too much. But really it's what works best for you...

Good luck!

[Hidden]

You don't need anything extra, but otherwise it's personal preference. I like to run empty and I might have some natural yoghurt with seeds and berries when I get home, but I don't usually eat breakfast in any case.

[Rigpig Graduate]

I usually run in the early morning and don't eat before I go out, this seems to work OK for me and I get really hungry after I get back, I read somewhere that running on an empty stomach helps kick start your metabolism for the day. Lots of people have a banana for energy before their runs though.

[WackySoph1999 in reply to Rigpig]

Awesome thank you!

[runningfordaims Graduate]

I was going to ask the same question as I’m on wk 3 run 1 (dreading it). I have a cuppa of tea and water then go (no food) not sure if I need a bit more “power@ for the longer runs but i find I feel less sick with no food? X