When do you eat nutritionals during a marathon?

Training Advice/Discussion Marathon

10 years ago 09/16/2013 7:36am EDT

Doing my first marathon in the next couple months and looking to run sub 3. I've been training with taking 3 shot blocks during my long runs but take them at different times depending on the length of run.

When are you supposed to take nutritionals during a marathon and how much? Out of everything I've tried I'm most comfortable with the shot blocks and would like to stick with them, but wasn't sure if there's a more educated time/reasoning to the quantity and miles in which to take them. Female opinions are also very appreciated if it makes a difference.

10 years ago 09/16/2013 10:55am EDT

re: hardcore par-kor

It depends on the weather and how well you carbo load.

For average marathon weather (55-65 degrees): I drink 8 ounces right before the start, then one dixie cup per mile. If the aid station are every mile, one each. If every other mile, then 2 per aid station. I alternate water and electrolyte each aid station (e.g. water OR gatorade). If I feel my bladder accumulating liquid by mile 5, I know I'm getting enough liquid. I carry a Cliff Bar the first five miles. If I'm doing OK, I pitch the Cliff Bar. Around mile 8, I'll eat a goo. At mile 20 I'll eat a goo or two and suck on some goo shots.

10 years ago 09/16/2013 10:58am EDT

re: hardcore par-kor

I dont like shot blocks because you have to chew and they get stuck to or teeth. Sucks to deal with that while breathing hard.

I am bigger, 6'4" and 170-175 lbs. i take a gel every 5-6mi depending on how i feel. Try to get some fluids every station even if its just a sip.

10 years ago 09/16/2013 5:33pm EDT

re: Np1112

My limited experience with using Gels is that they get tacky and hard to swallow (women struggling to swallow jokes commence).

I don't want to under-fuel during the race, but I'm also afraid of feeling like I have a full stomach when trying to go fast (fast for me at least, 5' tall girl). Not sure what the right balance is or what the common rule of thumb on the subject is...if there is one.

10 years ago 09/16/2013 5:40pm EDT

re: hardcore par-kor

Gu brand gels are very thick. Powerbar powergels are very thin (for a gel imo). Worth a shot unless you absolutely prefer the blocks. I would just try out different nutrition and timing on a long run and see what you like best.

10 years ago 09/18/2013 8:54pm EDT

re: Np1112

I take 3 Cliff shots per race. 2 around half and 1 around 18-20 mi based on how I feel. I'm interested to see what others do.

10 years ago 09/18/2013 9:01pm EDT

re: hardcore par-kor

I have used E-Gels for my last 2 marathons after hating shot blocks. E-gels have carbs and electrolytes so I only have to worry about drinking water. I usually take one every 5-5.5 miles and they have been awesome so far. Trying to break 3:10 next month, just to give some perspective.

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When do you eat nutritionals during a marathon?

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