
What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon
From Tread Lightly Running Science 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
More episodes of Tread Lightly Running Science Podcast
- Does Summer Running Really Make You Faster in the Fall? · September 5, 2026 · 35 min
- What to Do The Week After a Half Marathon or Marathon: A Science-based Post Race Recovery Guide · August 29, 2026 · 38 min
- Tune Up Race Formula: Timing, Recovery, and What the Training Theory Says · August 15, 2026 · 37 min
- The Psychology Behind Peak Running Performance with Dr. Trent Claypool · August 8, 2026 · 42 min
- Pilates as Strength Training, Can You Overfuel on Long Runs, If Max Cushion Shoes are Harmful and More: Our Hot (Science-based) Takes · August 1, 2026 · 32 min
- Sweat, Sodium, and Running Performance: What the Science Actually Says · July 25, 2026 · 36 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Tread Lightly Running Science Podcast podcast page.