Let's EAT!!!

Let me start off by saying, I have never been a runner... ever. I can spin, kickbox, teach awesome abs, do just about whatever you'd like, but running has never really been my thing. Recently, my boss, a few coworkers, and a good friend, have decided to run The Savannah Rock n' Roll half and whole marathons. I can't do anything but sit back and just envy, because this is truly an accomplishment for anyone! I have so much respect for all of you! Well, my good friend who will being running her first half in about a week and a half wrote me this : "I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog. Any tips on helping with endurance or how I should be eating before my race?" So girl, this is what I have for you!

The week leading up to race is just as important as the day before or the day of! You want to fill your body will lots and lots of good food. You have been training so hard and you don't wanna ruin it the week before! Everyone always talks about Carb-loading... well it holds some truth:

Carbohydrates: The whole week leading up to your race, eat lots of grains and starchy veggies and fruits. Starchy veggies you ask? Potatoes, Yams, Corn, Beans, Lentils, and Peas. After all, carbohydrates are our energy source!!! Carbohydrates that are not immediately used are stored in the muscles, called glycogen, for later use.

Protein: Slightly increase your protein levels the week before. Add lean proteins to your meals if you eat meat, you could add beans (which are full of protein!), and any dairy product! When the liver has depleted just about all the glycogen (using all your carbs), then your body will start to use up all those proteins. So, this is your second energy source when running.

Hydration: You want to be completely hydrated all the time, but definitely the week leading up to your race! If you drink sports drinks, make sure they will not affect your GI tract (as some cause discomfort). Also, try diluting them with water! The color of your urine is always a great indicator of hydration. Clear always means your hydrated, while an amber color means dehydration. Also, don't overhydrate (Hyponatremia), this can cause serious issues. But, most runner know their limit!

Jelly Beans???

I remember last year in one of my nutrition classes I had a professor who ran long distance... she said she kept a small bag of jelly beans with her. Every time she felt the need, she would pop one in her mouth. This releases a simple sugar and gives you a small burst of energy. Although its short lived, its a fun little way to get through!

 The Day of:

• Try and get lots of rest the night before... it wont happen most likely, but try at least!
• The day of your race try and avoid fiber or fats-- this could cause GI discomfort.
• So, from what I hear, races are full of give aways and a lot a free stuff! Hey, if you get free stuff, by all means, its yours! But, if it is gels or any type bars that is different than what you have been eating... just save it for later! Don't try new things on race day!
• Good pre race food- bagels, smoothies, fruit, cereal, peanut butter
• After your race get carbs in your body ASAP! Try some chocolate milk!! MMMMMM!

I hope this helps, if you have anymore questions, feel free to ask me!! good luck with your race!!

Happy Tuesday everyone!!