what to eat before a long run?

[djk123]

I hope this isn't a subject brought up over and over again here.

For a bet with a friend, I will be running 5 miles pretty soon, most likely this saturday. What would be best to eat the day before the run/the morning of the run? Thanks.

[Maybe]

Really for 5 miles it doesn't matter all that much in my opinion. Assuming you don't run often (and it seems like you don't or this bet would be easy money for you), make sure not to eat too much at all before the run. I'd actually do the run in the morning and not eat more then half a banana or a bottle of Gatorade; anything more and cramps could kill you.

The night before really doesn't matter too much either for a run this short. If you don't get wasted, don't eat anything crazy that will upset your stomach, and stay hydrated it should be cake.

[burkoboy]

i would do like 1/2 cup oatmeal, 2-3 egg whites, water

[jogsxyz]

I usually eat two slices of toast. Only one slice when I'm not hungry.

[LetItBe]

I do a cup of coffee, plain yogurt w/ berries and granola, and some juice. I adjust that depending on my running distance.

Eating before running is a very personal thing- there is no magic combo or food to eat. It's best done by playing around with different combos.

[mdouglass]

Nothing. I always get cramps if I eat before a run.

[mattnxtc]

Ive had a peanut butter sandwhich about 45 minutes before i do a harder run day (2-3 miles or so) and i always feel pretty good while running.

[shemp]

Milk is a bad choice.

I prefer more calories from carbs. Some people always seem to need to poop around a mile or two into competitive distance runs. If you are one of those people-- poop first or don't eat.

[Victor]

i wouldnt eat anything less than 3 hrs before the run. mebbe get away with 2 hrs. i would drink coffee and eat toast, mebbe a sandwich. no more than like 500 calories, preferably around 300.

as shemp said, make sure you get your poop out of the way too.

[abarber]

I read your OP. You have no chance. I'd try to find some EPO, amphetamines, etc. because you will need it.