Carb loading

jdelot

I'm running my first 1/2 on May 6th and I've been reading up on carb loading. Has anyone done this before a race? What did you eat? One thing I read said to start 2-3 days before the race to fill your muscles with glycogen. Any input is welcome.

runningfromzombies

The night before every race I've ever run, I've eaten Italian food of some sort (pasta is fantastic for carb loading). The night before my first 1/2 I ate three generous slices of deep dish pizza (chicken, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, mozarella...mmmm). I've done calzones, spaghetti, lasagna. Even during training runs, if I have something like pasta the night before a long run, I feel significantly more energetic during that run (and I'm usually less sore afterward, too). I definitely eat higher than usual in carbs for about three days before a race as well.

jdelot

The night before every race I've ever run, I've eaten Italian food of some sort (pasta is fantastic for carb loading). The night before my first 1/2 I ate three generous slices of deep dish pizza (chicken, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, mozarella...mmmm). I've done calzones, spaghetti, lasagna. Even during training runs, if I have something like pasta the night before a long run, I feel significantly more energetic during that run (and I'm usually less sore afterward, too). I definitely eat higher than usual in carbs for about three days before a race as well.

Cool. Thanks for the info.

987Runner

I've heard the same thing about carb loading, only difference is I heard to avoid cheese. Not sure why, all I can think of is phlegm! LOL! For my carb loading I'm going to be sticking with potatoes, whole wheat pastas, whole grain cereals, whole wheat breads, banana's, etc.

Meegz84

Is 14km a good enough excuse for me to induldge in some extra carbs??? mmmmmmm... nom nom nom...

StrongerByTheMiles

I have been working on carb loading. I do feel fueled and it also helps to avoid stomach issues. I am at a point in my running now where I really have to plan what I eat. I plan healthy for normal days so that I am energized and helping my body. I plan to carb load for long runs. I plan recovery meals (snacks) after short run and better recovery meals after long runs. I plan fuel (water/Gatorade/GU) to consume during runs. Sometimes I feel like I constantly think about food because I am always planning what to fuel my body with. It can be overwhelming, but I think it helps you get to the next level!