Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

So I am running a half marathon on Sunday. I was just running, what do you eat before? The race starts at 7 and I have to be lined up at 6:30.

Also, I plan on having pasta the night before, but is there anything recommended fro the whole day? Should I eat carbs all day, or does it not matter.

Thanks!

Re: Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

The night before I wouldn't load up too much on pasta or you may feel too heavy in the morning. I usually eat a small amount of pasta with veggies. I stay away from meat and dairy. Rice and veggies work well too...

As for the morning, I would eat a english muffin/toast with peanut butter before you leave your apt. Take a banana with you to eat on the way and finish as you are lining up. That's usually my routine for a full and half marathon.

Good luck...I can't wait to hear about your experience. Enjoy the race...take it all in...you will never have a first half marathon again...you will love it!!

Re: Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

I couldn't agree more with Robyn...I do the same thing: english muffin/.5 bagel when I wake up and a banana on the way...sipping water.


I also agree that you should not carb load the night before - especially if you have never carb loaded before - you might regret it the next morning looking for a bathroom. I just recently read that eating a carb dinner 2 days before the race can also be beneficial (the glycogen stays in your muscles until you run)


I hope you are enjoying your taper week! good luck!

Re: Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

Before a race I normally have 1/2 a bagel with peanut butter.

I agree with the above posters about eating alot of carbs the night before.

Good Luck and have a great race!!

Re: Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

I agree too. Bagel/English Muffin with Peanut Butter and then bring a banana with you to eat while waiting to run.

One race I did (1/2 marathon) and I only ate Cheerios in the morning. Stupid! My legs were hurting by 10 miles.

Good luck!

Re: Long Distance Runners- What do you eat before the race

I know I am late to respond but I usually eat a 1/2 a banana and a protein bar. Sometimes crackers with peanut butter! before a long run!