Runner’s fuel

[Tattoodo]

Good morning everyone!

I’ll be honest I’ve just been trying to wing it when it comes to what to eat/drink before a run. I’ve just sat down with my bowl of porridge and strawberries (and golden syrup because porridge without it is 🤢), to prepare for my lunchtime run…week 6 Run 3 so it’s the 25 minute one with no walking breaks.

What has everyone found is the best thing to eat before you go? I want to eat something that will give me energy but not sit in my stomach and make me feel groggy or get a stitch.

And how long before you run do you eat?

I appreciate any tips/suggestions!

Thank you ☺️

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

I have a light breakfast, my golden rule is not to run less than a hour after breakfast, keep eating what you enjoy like your porridge and strawberryies but note the time you finish eating then one hour later go for your run, good luck for your run 3 of week 6, once you have completed it you will be officially a runner.

[Bruch1 Graduate]

During the week I don't have breakfast before my run as I couldn't leave enough time between. Then I have my porridge, made with almond milk,with peanut butter, cinnamon, blueberries and honey and sometimes top it all off with a banana!! On park run mornings I just have my porridge etc as it's over an hour til we set off on the run. I think you have to find what feels right for you and remember to stay hydrated too.

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate]

🍏That’s a great question which has been well answered by AlMorr & Bruch1 It’s also very important to make sure you are well hydrated especially coming up to the longer runs. That means on your non running days as well as before & after the run. When I run at the crack of dawn I have a wee drink of water & a spoonful of yoghurt before putting on my gear & warming up. I then enjoy toast and avocado followed by coffee after my run. It’s whatever suits you and the time of day you are running! Enjoy Week 6.. great place to be at! Well done!!

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate]

This is a question that’s so individual to answer. Trial and error for what works for you is totally normal. I often have toast and jam/peanut butter, or fruit and seed oatcakes, or a banana before running. Usually an hour before but sometimes as I’m leaving for the warm up walk because I’m a bit disorganised in the morning. There’s no absolutely right or wrong answer here. Have fun trying things out! It get more important as your runs get longer so it’s worth experimenting now!