I’ve found that most of my runner friends are either way extreme on absolutely no food at all before or during a run or must have food during a run. Which are you? As an avid runner, and a Mom, I know that keeping some food for fuel is a smart idea while out on a longer or a hard run. You just never know how you are going to feel on a run, so being prepared with some food for fuel is a must! That is why I’m listing out my 5 Foods to Try on your Next Run. Obviously, let’s not try them all on the same run. (=
1. Sport Gels
Energy Gels are a great way to give you some extra energy to get through the run, or back. I can admit I’ve been turned around a few times and I needed the calories and electrolytes. I tend to fuel without caffeine as much as possible, but it sure does help when you are dragging.
Some of my favorite Energy Gels are:
GU – Chocolate is my favorite (but I love chocolate so…) Check them out here –> GU GELS
Maurten Gel – No flavor and on a hard hot exhausting run this is my favorite. Bonus: its easy on the stomach. Check them out here –> Maurten Gels
Science in Sport (SIS) – These I can feel when it kicks in. It can upset my stomach but for a 5k or a shorter run if I only need one gel this is a solid option. Check them out here –> SIS GO
2. Clementine
These little guys will give you some energy! Peel ahead of time and grab a few when you need to feel reenergized! This is my favorite trail snack to bring when its hot outside.
3. Electrolyte Drink
This may not be chewable food, but having my soft flask filled with an electrolyte has been crucial for hot days or really long runs. My go-to lately have been Pineapple Flavored Skratch or Nuun.
4. PB&J
This was a staple with my 50k training. What was funny is I haven’t had a PB&J since I was a kid. So when I was researching fuel ideas that are easy on the stomach for those 1.5+ hour run days this sandwich did the trick! I only ate half a sandwich at a time and I could feel the difference in energy shortly after.
5. Fig Bars
I can get addicted to fig bars. Maybe it’s just me, but I eat them like I do Oreos. ha! So I’ll throw a few in a baggie and off I go for a sweet treat as a reward.
Be smart and fuel your body for your next run and feel the difference! Comment below on what your favorite foods are!
Chase your goals!
Stacey