carbs before a half marathon for a low carb eater?

syk731

I'm running my first half marathon a week from tomorrow.

I normally eat low carb - less than 100g carbs most days.

I've heard one doesn't need to carb load before a half. I'm wondering whether because I normally eat low carb whether there should be any benefit (or harm, for that matter), in eating more carbs for a few days before the race?

I've not had any issues with my long runs eating low carb.

If I should eat more carbs, what should I aim for in terms for carb intake and for how long beforehand?

Thanks.

KeithAngilly

depends on your goal...

If you are trying to finish,then I wouldn't change anything (nothing new on race day!) If you are not used to ingesting a reasonable amount of carbs, then there is no sense in trying to see if you can on race day. I do think a good rule of thumb is to stop eating eating and drinking 2 hours before the race. This gives everything a chance to "pass through". A sip of water here and there probably won't hurt, but I would avoid chugging lot's of water before the event.

Good luck with your race and have fun!

RunBrew

Stick with what your body knows. If you eat some carbs for long runs, do that.

Carb-loading will almost cause GI distress and ruin your race.