Half marathon
Half-Marathon Fueling for Beginners
Fueling is not a race-day experiment. Beginners do best with a simple plan they have already practiced on long runs.
Practice first
Try breakfast, water, sports drink, or gels during long runs. Race day should repeat what already feels safe.
Before the start
Eat a familiar carbohydrate-focused meal a few hours before the race, then use small sips rather than overdrinking.
During the race
Many beginners benefit from some carbohydrate during a half marathon, especially if they expect to run longer than 90 minutes.
Keep it simple
Use aid stations calmly, carry what you have practiced, and avoid new products just because the expo gave them away.