What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon

What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon

From Tread Lightly Running Podcast by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris

April 25, 2026 · 36 min · Episode 164

About this episode

This episode discusses the optimal pre-race meal strategies for various race distances, focusing on carbohydrates, caffeine, and hydration to enhance performance and prevent gastrointestinal issues.

Carbohydrates, caffeine, and water (sometimes with electrolytes): these seem so simple, but they all improve performance when taken before a race. In this episode, we discuss how to structure your pre-race meal before a 5K to marathon, including what to eat, how to time it, and how to avoid GI upset. Thank you to our sponsors: ✨ Wahoo KICKR RUN: A treadmill that feels like running outdoors. Shop here: http://bit.ly/4nai73H and read the full review: https://runtothefinish.com/wahoo-kickr-run-treadmill/ ✨ Probio: NSF-certified, clinically dosed, all-in-one supplement. Use this link for 40% off your order and an additional 10% and free shipping on a subscription. ✨ Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned company. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for free shipping at https://runtothefinish.com/title-nine/ ✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podcasts for special subscriber-only content! In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why pre-race carbohydrates are beneficial at even the harder, shorter distances ✅ Why simple carbs are ideal before a race ✅ How to prevent GI upset on race day ✅ How to time your pre-race meals (including before…

People in this episode

Hosts: Amanda Brooks, Laura Norris

Topics covered

  • pre-race nutrition
  • carbohydrates
  • caffeine
  • hydration
  • GI upset
  • race preparation

Keywords

  • pre-race meal
  • 5K
  • marathon
  • carbohydrates
  • caffeine timing
  • hydration
  • GI upset
  • nutrition

Sponsors

Wahoo KICKR RUN, Probio, Title Nine

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tread Lightly Running

Products: Wahoo KICKR RUN

Books & works: Tread Lightly Running Podcast

Places: Patreon

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