Can't commit to a full workout regime or highly restrictive diet? You don't need to.

Health and wellness come not from a magic pill, diet, or program, but from gradually transforming your current lifestyle into a healthy one, day by day.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Tip #52: Eat Smart Before the Race (or exercise)

Okay, so you've signed up for a 5k, but now you need to know what to eat before it!  The fuel you put into your body before a competition can make it or break it.  Not eating anything could leave you weak, but eating too much or the wrong things, could make you feel heavy or sick.

Follow these pre-race guidlelines for optimal energy and smooth sailing:
-Eat about 3 hours before the race.
-Your meal should be high-carbohydrate and low-fat.
-Avoid foods high in fiber or foods that cause gas (you don't want to deal with an upset stomach or be making extra trips to the bathroom!).
-Drink 17-20 oz of fluid 2-3 hours before the competition.
-Drink an additional 7-10 oz of fluid @ 10-20 minutes before the start.
-Only eat foods that you are familiar with and that your body is used to.  Never try a new food the morning before a race!

My pre-race meal:
1. Oatmeal
OR
2. Toast w/a little peanut butter
OR
3. Power Bar

*With a little coffee, a lot of water, and some Gatorade.

Following these pre-race (pre-exercise) guidelines, will allow you to enjoy and focus on your task at hand; not your tummy.

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