Nutrition Mistakes to Avoid Before and During Running
We’ve all heard the advice about carbo-loading before your big race; or drinking a ton of water to get hydrated before a marathon. But where some pre-race nutrition guidelines can actually help you to run a successful race, others may actually hurt your chances of finishing at all. Avoiding these nutrition mistakes before and during your race will help you in the long run (pun intended).
- The Carbo-load. The myth is that you need that extra boost of carbohydrates to help fuel your body through the race. In actuality, the place you may be running to is the restroom and not so much towards the finish line. Don’t overload the night before, but rather consume normal quantities of carbs the week before the race and allow your body to process them in the way that it should without the glut.
- Experimenting with something new. Trying a new food or energy supplement right before or even during the race can bring unexpected results – and not in a positive way. New foods can cause stomach distress and leave you dehydrated and unable to experience the race at your optimal levels.
- Burning calories without replenishing. If you are running longer than an hour than you are going to want to refuel during your event. Keeping handy sources of carbs on hand can help you avoid feeling lethargic and spur you further on.
- Skipping breakfast the day of the race. Whether you normally skip breakfast on any given day, or if race day jitters make you feel slightly nauseous, you’ll want to overcome those issues and make sure to get in a quality breakfast anyway. Keeping your blood sugar steady and providing you with energy to start your race off on the right foot are why eating a wholesome but light breakfast. Opt for a smoothie if solid food leaves you feeling too full.
With all of the advice out there about race day nutrition it is important to find out what works for you. We do know that no matter what preparation you’ve made for your race, we’ll be there to provide protection during your race. Headsweats running caps, hats and visors are specifically manufactured with runners in mind with innovative and breathable fabrics and our exclusive built-in sweatband that helps keep you comfortable and your sweat out of your eyes. With the coolest in visors for men and women, Headsweats look great every step of the way.
