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    Tread Lightly Running Podcast

    Tread Lightly Running Podcast

    About

    The Tread Lightly Running Podcast provides data-driven, evidence-based running advice in a practical, accessible, and inclusive manner. . You'll learn about how to run faster, marathon training, the latest fueling science, how to prevent running injury, and more. Tread Lightly Running Podcast is co-hosted by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, MSc. Together, they have over 20 years of coaching experience and have helped thousands of runners reach their goals through 1:1 coaching and group training. They've appeared in Runner's World, SELF, NPR, Outside, and other major media.

    Hosted By

    Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris

    What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon

    What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon

    April 25, 2026
    35m

    Carbohydrates, caffeine, and water (sometimes with electrolytes): these seem so simple, but they all improve performance when taken before a race. In this episode, we discuss how to structure your pre-race meal before a 5K to marathon, including what to eat, how to time it, and how to avoid GI upset.

    Thank you to our sponsors:

    ✨Wahoo KICKR RUN: A treadmill that feels like running outdoors. Shop here: http://bit.ly/4nai73H and read the full review: https://runtothefinish.com/wahoo-kickr-run-treadmill/

    ✨Probio: NSF-certified, clinically dosed, all-in-one supplement. Use this link for 40% off your order and an additional 10% and free shipping on a subscription.

    ✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned company. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for free shipping at https://runtothefinish.com/title-nine/

    ✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podcasts for special subscriber-only content!

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    ✅ Why pre-race carbohydrates are beneficial at even the harder, shorter distances

    ✅ Why simple carbs are ideal before a race

    ✅ How to prevent GI upset on race day

    ✅ How to time your pre-race meals (including before late-start races)

    ✅ Caffeine timing before a race

    ✅ How to hydrate before a race

    References

    🔬 PMID: 33388079

    🔬 PMID: 30747558

    🔬PMID: 40089940

    Tread Lightly Running is hosted and researched by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, MSc. Production, show notes, and graphics by Laura Norris.

    Let’s stay connected:

    ➡️ Tread Lightly Running Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treadlightlyrunning/

    ➡️ Laura Norris Running on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauranorrisrunning/

    ➡️ Subscribe for weekly evidence-based newsletters, straight to your inbox, on https://lauranorrisrunning.substack.com/

    ➡️ Run to the Finish on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runtothefinish/?hl=en

    ➡️ Thousands of running gear reviews and training guides: https://runtothefinish.com/

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