Marathon Meal Plan - Wednesday
Eat right in the week leading up to an endurance event. Sports nutritionist James Collins explains why, by Wednesday, your protein intake should be on the rise.
Overall dietary guidelines:
Contrary to previous beliefs, the week before the marathon isn’t all about piling on the pasta. In fact, to maximise carbohydrate (fuel) stores before the race, runners only need to start ‘fuelling up' or ‘carb-loading' two or three days before the race (three days if you prefer a slower increase in your daily intake). Read more in our guide to carb-loading.
Earlier in the week, it may be useful to start including snacks to train the gut in preparation for increased carbohydrate intake in the days leading into the race.
As a general rule, what you eat should be different depending on the training demands for that day (or when you are preparing for the race itself) to promote sufficient fuelling and recovery. Discover what to eat on different training days with our training meal plans for runners.
We’ve included examples of the race training programme from the London Marathon to plan your nutrition for this day.
Wednesday training:
20 minutes easy run
* Beginner's guidelines as recommended by the London Marathon.
Wednesday nutrition:
Protein-rich foods at each meal are the priority for today with a light training session. Carbohydrates are lower today before increasing tomorrow, leading into the race. Try out some new meal options with a range of fruits and vegetables to provide micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) for the regeneration of muscles. Snacks are included as optional depending on your preferences.
Breakfast
Apple & linseed porridge
Start the day the right way with a nutrient-rich, oaty breakfast. This is full of stomach-friendly fibre – great for digestion.
Morning snack
Sweet & spicy nuts
Add flavour to protein-rich nuts with cinnamon and mixed spices.
Lunch
Turkey burgers with beetroot relish served with quinoa tabbouleh
These low-fat, healthy burgers make a delicious and filling lunch served with a nutritious quinoa salad.
Afternoon snack
Frozen fruit sticks with passion fruit & lime drizzle
This colourful mix of fruit adds a hit of natural sweetness to your day.
Dinner
Thai-style steamed fish with chilli green salad
Fish is a great source of lean protein and perfectly paired with a flavourful, spicy salad.