Nutrition for Running
Fueling your run is important to maintain energy levels and performance, especially during longer runs, 60 minutes or more. As you run, your body uses up glycogen - its main fuel source. Without adequate glycogen replacement, you'll start to feel fatigued, have trouble concentrating, and your pace will slow.
Energy gels and energy drinks provide easily digestible carbohydrates to top up glycogen as you run. Gels offer concentrated doses of carbs in a portable, convenient package. Energy drinks provide lower concentrations delivered steadily as you sip. Aim to consume 30-60 grams of carbs per hour from gels and/or drinks when running for over 60-90 minutes.
ENERGY GELS FOR RUNNING |
ENERGY DRINKS FOR RUNNING |
ENERGY BARS FOR RUNNING |
RECOVERY DRINKS FOR RUNNING |
HYDRATION FOR RUNNING |
Stay well-hydrated before and during your runs by drinking up to 500ml of fluid 2-3 hours pre-run. For longer efforts, aim for 100 to 200ml every 20 to 30 minutes. Water suffices for shorter runs, but opt for hydration drinks on runs exceeding 60 minutes to replenish lost electrolytes.
Optimize recovery post-run by consuming a mix of protein and carbs within 30 to 60 minutes. Aim for 0.3-0.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Convenient options include recovery drinks or recovery bars. Prompt refueling reduces muscle soreness and prepares you for robust training in the days ahead.
If you are training for a marathon, why not check out our specific page about nutrition and energy for marathons.
Running Nutrition: Insights
Nutrition for Running: FAQs
What is the best nutrition for running?
For runs under 60 minutes, you typically don't need to fuel during the run. Focus on eating a balanced diet with complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Good options are oatmeal, sweet potatoes, quinoa, eggs, nuts, and seeds. For longer runs, energy gels, hydration drinks, and carbohydrate drinks can help provide fuel and prevent fatigue.
What should a 1600-metre runner eat?
1600-metre runners need quick, easily digested carbs before a race, like a banana, energy gel, or sports drink. Oatmeal or sweet potatoes make good complex carb choices a few hours beforehand. Post-race, consume carbs to replenish muscle glycogen within 30 minutes, like a recovery shake.
How much should I eat as a runner?
Most runners need around 0.5-0.8 grams of carbs per pound of body weight daily to fuel runs and recover properly. Moderate portions of nutritious complex carbs, protein, and fats at all meals help provide this.
What food makes you run faster?
Carbohydrate-rich foods provide quick energy for faster paces. Good options are energy gels and energy drinks, bananas, raisins, potatoes, pasta, and bread. Caffeine can also help improve speed temporarily. Stay well hydrated by drinking to thirst.
How can I run more without getting tired?
Should I account for electrolyte loss?
Yes, especially if racing in heat or you tend to sweat heavily. Add electrolyte tablets to your energy drink or consume an electrolyte-infused sports drink. This helps prevent painful cramping.
