For those of you who don’t know, on the 9th of November I will be attempting my very first long run. By long run, I mean 50K (so roughly about 34 miles.) WOOHOO. Have I ever done a marathon? Nope. I sort of skipped over that step. Unfortunately, my brothers and I seem to have all received the “obsession” trait from one of my parents. Once we get fixated on something, we just don’t let it go. I became fixated with running an ultra-marathon, and now I won’t rest until I have at least attempted one! Unfortunately, when running any ultra-marathon, the running is one of the easiest parts. The training and food planning are a completely different story. For the last 2 months I have been training for a long race (although I was not sure how long), so I feel semi-prepared. Unfortunately, when it comes to the nutrition side of running an ultra, I am completely and totally clueless.  According to our race guide, we have aid stations about every 4 miles that include water, Gatorade, potatoes, granola bars, bananas, figs, gummy bears, pretzels and cookies. Trust me, when I read it I thought it was the weirdest assortment of food ever. I know that while running I will be needing to replenish my store of electrolytes and carbs, and it was also recommended that I run with a backpack to replenish my water supply constantly. Quite honestly, the food aspect of this thing is scaring me more than the actual mileage. So, for any of you that may someday be attempting to run a marathon (or an ultra), I have researched and compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you!

1. For the first 4 hours of running, a runner can usually supply on a steady stream of gels and other simple carbs to keep from completely collapsing. Not surprisingly, after about 4 hours, the body will require a more complex form of carb like granola bars, potatoes or cookies.
2. In regards to hydration, I will need to be drinking about 14-16 oz of water per hours. Of course, with the awesome cold weather I am bound to have, I will probably be sweating less. The amount of water required also depends on the pace you are trying to keep.
3. Many ultra-runners like to drink coffee in an attempt to keep their energy levels up. Coffee, however, dehydrates the body and needs to be balanced with a steady intake of other fluids (like water).
4. After finishing the race (assuming I finish of course) replenishing my body with protein for recovery will be key!

After doing all of my research, I really realized what a newbie I am at long races. Apparently I should have had an eating plan for the last 2 months. Opps. Too late now! Hopefully, through sheer will power I will be able to focus and complete the entire course! Make sure everyone is extra nice on November 11, as I will be a very tired girl.