What To Eat Before, During, and After Your First Marathon

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

1.

WhatToEat

After months of pounding the pavement and following a healthy diet in preparation of a spring marathon or other running event, there are still a few important tips when it comes to fueling that could affect overall race performance. In fact, of the hundreds of thousands of people who run a marathon each year, more than 40% hit the figurative “wall” due to improper nutrition which results in

RELATED: 10 Things to Know Before Purchasing Your Next Pair of Running Shoes
RELATED: The 10 Best Running Blogs You Should Read Today

banana
Bananas

When: Pre-Run

You’ve all seen runners and athletes alike noshing on bananas before a race or game. Why? They are a good source of carbs and potassium and are a safe pre-run food as they are unlikely to cause gastrointestinal issues.

cinamonCinnamon

When: Pre-Run

Believe it or not, cinnamon promotes blood circulation which means more oxygen to your muscles.  Try grabbing a bar like PowerBar’s Apple Cinnamon so you’re getting protein and cinnamon in one bite.

honeyHoney

When: Run

Either grab a small bottle of honey and pack it in your pocket or try Honey Stinger gel packets which include B Vitamins and Electrolytes.

group of cherriesCherry Juice

When: Post Run

Cherries are higher in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than many other types of fruit.  Cheribound’s original juice is packed with 50 cherries and can be enjoyed warm or cold.

2.

almond_walnut_macadamia copy

KIND Bars

When: Post Run

KIND’s Almond Walnut Macadamia + Protein has an extra boost of protein and is composed primarily of nuts – which help refuel and re-energize the weathered runner.

RELATED10 Things to Know Before Purchasing Your Next Pair of Running Shoes
RELATEDThe 10 Best Running Blogs You Should Read Today