Fuelling your Run: 6 #runwithian tips on what & when to eat before a run
Today, we're diving into an essential topic that often puzzles many of us: 'when to eat before a run?' Wholesome nutrition and timing can make a world of difference in your performance and overall enjoyment of your run. So, let's lace up our shoes and explore some helpful tips to ensure you're fuelled correctly and ready to get going.
1. Listen to your body
When it comes to pre-run nutrition, it's crucial to tune in to your body's unique needs. Each runner is different. What works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to your hunger levels, digestion, and energy levels to determine what timing and types of foods work best for you. Keep a journal or diary if that helps spot patterns.
2. Timing is key
Finding the ideal time to eat before a run can be a bit of trial and error. Generally, it's recommended to allow around 1-3 hours for digestion before running. Eating too close to your run can lead to discomfort or indigestion, while running on an empty stomach may leave you feeling sluggish.
- For early morning runners: Consider having a smaller snack like a banana, half a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts 30 minutes before your run. Follow it up with a more substantial breakfast post-run to replenish your energy stores.
- For midday or evening runners: Aim to have a balanced meal containing carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats about 2-3 hours before your run. This timeframe allows for proper digestion while providing enough fuel to sustain your efforts.
3. Choose the right foods
What you eat before a run plays a significant role in your performance. Focus on consuming easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods that provide a steady release of energy.
Here are some smart choices:
Complex carbohydrates: opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide a slow and steady release of energy throughout your run
Lean proteins: Incorporate lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, or beans to support muscle repair and recovery
Healthy fats: Include sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds, which help sustain energy levels during longer runs
4. Make sure there is colour and variety in your diet
Variety in your diet is crucial for maintaining optimal health and powering your day. Is your meal your plate beige in colour? Make sure you have range of colours in each meal. Incorporating a wide range of foods provides your body with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that it needs to function at its best. Each food item offers a unique combination of nutrients, and by diversifying your diet, you ensure that you receive a broad spectrum of these vital elements.
Having a varied diet also helps prevent nutrient deficiencies. Different foods contain different amounts of nutrients, so relying solely on a few food items may lead to imbalances in your nutrient intake. By including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, you can ensure that you are meeting your body's requirements.
Furthermore, a diverse diet can also enhance your culinary experience. Trying new foods and flavours keeps meals exciting and enjoyable and is essential also for those of you who have a healthy diet already. Try something new. Be adventurous and explore different food options to nourish your body and delight your taste buds.
If you are after some inspiration you can download the popular RunWithIan Recipe Packs for Runners here and use code: FOOD50 for 50% off at checkout.
5. Hydration matters
Don't forget the importance of hydration. Proper hydration should be a priority throughout the day, but especially before a run. Aim to drink fluids regularly leading up to your run and consider sipping water or a sports drink about 30 minutes before you head out. This will help ensure you're adequately hydrated without feeling overly full.
Remeber that you can also top up your hydration levels with solid food. See the 10 Water Rich Foods that help with hydration for runners here.
6. Experiment and adjust
Remember that finding the perfect pre-run routine may take some experimentation. Pay attention to how different foods and timing affect your energy levels, digestion, and overall performance. With time and practice, you'll discover what works best for you
Finding the optimal timing and foods to eat before a run is a personal journey that requires some trial and error. By listening to your body's cues, giving yourself enough time to digest, and choosing nutrient-dense meals, you'll be on your way to fuelling your runs like a pro.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach, so be patient and stay tuned into your body's needs. Happy running!