Preparation is vital for runners of any skill level.
Some examples of nutritionally balanced pre-run meals include:
Do You Need a Pre-Run Meal?
For shorter runs, like those lasting under an hour, you may not need a full meal beforehand.
ArtistGNDphotography / Getty Images
They feel better without sitting down for a meal first.
It’s best to plan for fueling your longer runs.
Eat a meal 1-3 hours before running to ensure proper digestion.
Some examples of pre-run snacks include:
Do You Need a Pre-Run Snack?
Eating a pre-run snack can help you maintain energy levels during your workout and prevent shakiness and hunger mid-run.
Keeping your energy levels stable is critical to maintaining your performance and preventing fatigue.
What works for your running mate may not work for you.
Summary
Running is a great way to exercise your body and mind.
It’s also much more than simply moving your legs.
Regardless of your run duration or intensity, nutrition is vital in supporting your energy and comfort.
Rothschild JA, Kilding AE, Plews DJ.What should I eat before exercise?
Pre-exercise nutrition and the response to endurance exercise: current prospective and future directions.Nutrients.
2020;12(11):3473. doi:10.3390/nu12113473
American Diabetes Association.Get to know carbs.
Vitale K, Getzin A.Nutrition and supplement update for the endurance athlete: review and recommendations.Nutrients.
2023;15(6):1367. doi:10.3390/nu15061367