6. Nutrition
Nutrition can make or break a trail run. Experimentation is key to finding food that is:
- Easy to carry
- Tastes great
- Fuels your run
- Doesn't upset your stomach
More: 5 Pre-Race Nutrition Mistakes to Avoid
Food preferences are as individual as the runners themselves. Some opt for name-brand, pre-packaged bars, while other prefer to slap together some sandwiches instead. Make sure you always read the ingredients of the bars you buy, especially if you have known allergies or sensitivities.
Try a variety of things, but if something doesn't work for you, don't be afraid to move on. Just because it works for an athlete you admire or your best running buddy, that doesn't mean it should be your personal choice.
More: 10 Natural Race Food Alternatives
A tried and true brand:
Rise Bars are a delicious, gluten-free snack made from a natural mixture of fruit and nuts. They are soy-free, kosher, and manufactured in a peanut-free facility. Each bar provides around 160 calories and 5 g of protein. They come in delicious flavors like Blueberry Coconut, Crunchy Macadamia Pineapple, and Crunchy Honey Almond.
What your friends don't have yet:
GabyBars are made fresh to order by Gaby herself in her own kitchen. Each bar is hand-made with 100 percent organic vegan ingredients, and shipped for your convenience. Choose between chocolate, peanut butter, or half and half if you can't decide. You can also buy GabyBites, which are smaller bite-sized nuggets designed for fueling your long runs. Besides eating these on the trails, Gaby's fans have been known to heat them up in their microwaves at home for a delicious dessert.
See you out on the trails.
Sign up for your next race.