Coffee before running?

cseals108

Hi everyone!

I've found that when I drink coffee before running, I have a lot more energy during the run. I'm not talking about drinking it right before running either - I mean drinking a cup and then waiting an hour or so before going on a run. Does anyone know if this is healthy to do? I don't want to do something unhealthy, and so it would help to know if this is in fact ok to do. Anyone have any insight on this?

Thanks!

seximami79

I've read it helps give your metabolism a nice little pick me up. I don't run much, but I do walk while drinking coffee. Sometimes it gets my bowels moving, and I have to run home in the middle of my walk though, lol!

pooleekylie

The only reason people shun coffee before running is because some people think caffeine is linked to side-stitches.

LorinaLynn

I have caffeine every morning, whether I run or not. I would imagine it's only a problem if it raises your heart rate TOO much.

McBully4

I never drink coffee, but since I started paying more attention to my breathing when I run I never get side stitches anymore.

ixap

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-301--13105-0,00.html

I definitely find it helps me. If you're drinking it black, there's no nutritional downside (unless caffeine interferes with your sleep).
If you are adding a ton of sugar, not so great.

cseals108

Great to hear! Thanks everyone! And thanks ixap for the link to that great Runners World article!