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PERFORMANCE ENERGY

Nutrition For Running

Carbohydrates are the ultimate running fuel, providing energy to muscles. Whether you’re tackling a fun run or an ultramarathon, optimizing carb intake can help boost performance and recovery.

PERFORMANCE ENERGY

Nutrition For Running

Carbohydrates are the ultimate running fuel, providing energy to muscles. Whether you’re tackling a fun run or an ultramarathon, optimizing carb intake can help boost performance and recovery.

Energy Hub Running Before Desktop

Clif Athlete, Scott Jurek

Before

Before a long run, be sure to eat to recharge your batteries. Ideally, reach for something that’s mainly carbohydrates with modest amounts of fiber, fat, and protein. If you’re going for a jog or running for less than an hour, grab something smaller and drink plenty of water.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates

Sustain Energy

Timing 1 2hrs

Timing

1-2 Hours Before a Run

Energy Hub Running During Desktop v2

During

During intense runs lasting more than 1 hour, performance foods like gels and chews provide quick carbohydrates (fast fuel) to working muscles, helping to prevent the dreaded “bonk.”

Stay hydrated with 4–6 ounces of fluid every 15–20 minutes. Reach for water or try sports drinks to help replace sodium lost in sweat.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates

Sustain Energy

Timing Per Hour

Timing

30-60g of Carbohydrates / Hour

After

After a long run, drink plenty of water and focus on foods and drinks with carbohydrates and complete protein (like meat, dairy, and soy). Carbohydrates help restore muscle-energy stores (glycogen), while protein encourages muscle repair.

Protein + Carbohydrates

Repair & Restore

Timing

Within 30 minutes