How to Eat Before a Trail Run

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Your body needs fuel for optimum performance on a trail run. But don't wait until you hit the trail to start eating. Plan ahead.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Think of your pre-run meal as a chance to put gas in your tank. Without fuel, you probably won't perform as well as you can.
Step 2

Eat a high-carbohydrate meal (such as pasta, bread and salad) the night before your run if you plan to hit the trail early.
Step 3

Experiment to see what you can handle and what works best for you. Some people can eat a sandwich 15 minutes before they run, while others require hours without any food whatsoever.
Step 4

Avoid fatty foods and candy. They do little for your muscles and may be difficult to digest.
Step 5

Nibble on high-carbohydrate foods like fruit and energy bars up to 2 hours before you go. Avoid overeating.
Step 6

Find an eating routine that works for you, and stick with it.

Tips & Warnings

Eating is important, but so is drinking - remember to stay hydrated.
Unless you've got a steel stomach, try not to run immediately after a big meal.
Trail running is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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