Tip #25 | What to Eat Before the Race

Welcome back to our annual “26 Tips for 26.2 Miles” blog series. For the 26 days leading up to race day, athletes and spectators can get daily tips to make the most of OUR race. Stay tuned for tips on parking and food, cool viewing spots and race rules, and answers to all your pressing race day questions. We are here to help you make the most of your 2023 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon experience! Let’s go!

Eating before the race is essential to fueling your body for the miles ahead. And while you might be tempted to fuel up with a large, hearty breakfast, remember that a lot of food can leave you feeling sluggish and may cause an upset stomach. Instead, opt for easy-on-the-stomach carbohydrate-filled food like oatmeal, a banana with peanut butter, toast and jam, or a granola bar with fruit. You’ll also want to avoid high-fiberfoods, as fiber can leave you feeling gassy and bloated.

Check out this Training Talk video for more information on what you should and should not consider eating before the race.

Eating well before the race helps load your muscles with carbs (or glycogen), which your body will later use for fuel. Successful “carbo-loading” will help reduce the ominous feeling of “Hitting the Wall;”or more information on what “Hitting the Wall” means and feels like, check out this Training Talk video.

Make sure to prioritize re-fueling after the race as well! You can find out more about Post Race Recovery in Tip #14 here. And while you’re in downtown Columbus celebrating the incredible feat of running the full or half marathon, be sure to support our local businesses and restaurants—there are many great options all within walking distance.

Have questions about what to eat before the race? Let us know in the comments below, or share with us on Facebook and Instagram, and we’ll be sure to get them answered!