Now that my weekly long run is over 10 miles (2 hours), I seriously need to think about fuel during the run, and supplements to help with recovery the next day. During a recent 11 mile run, my legs completely cramped up around the 9 mile mark and I was forced to walk most of the last two miles. I was not doing anything to fuel my runs, i.e. no sports drinks, electrolytes and carbs, etc. 

Let’s Start with the Basics – Water!

After running my first half marathon, it became quite obvious that I was going to need to figure out a way to drink water and electrolytes during my long training runs. Choices are bottle belts or Camelbacks. I decided to go with the Camelbak. Here’s a picture of the one I purchased from REI.

  This super lightweight pack holds 70 oz. of water in a bladder that prevents mildew. I add my own electrolyte drink powder. The Camelbak comes in a smaller 50 oz. size, and larger sizes, too.

More Fuel!

According to Brown University dietician and marathon-runner, Gina Guiducci, sport foods, such as bars or gels, are recommended for training that lasts longer than 60 minutes. My sister Kara and I decided to try Sport Beans, and we love them! Also available at REI, these are…jelly beans! Made by Jelly Belly, they are as tasty as you would expect from the best jelly bean company on the planet. They include carbs (sugar), electrolytes, and some vitamin B’s and C. I could do without the added synthetic vitamins, and these are definitely not health food, but they provide the necessary carbs and electrolytes I need (in a yummy package) to keep me going on those long runs. Here’s a pic…

Our favorite flavors are Berry, Orange, and Watermelon. The Watermelon flavor is also caffeinated, which might come in handy sometimes. 

Pre-Workout

I like to prepare for my runs with three Perfect Revive, the perfect blend of Acai, Rhodiola Rosea, and Cordyceps. Rhodiola Rosea and Cordyceps were voted the best natural enery boosters by Alternative Medicine Magazine in 2004. These natural remedies are also recommended for endurance and recovery.

Recovery

I take three more Perfect Revive after my runs to help with Recovery. I am very happy with how quickly I am recovering after these long, 13 mile, 2 plus hour training runs.  Into my fourth decade…”I’m not as young as I used to be!”

To learn more about an All Natural Energy Endurance Supplement – Read about Perfect Acai Revive