We’re less than 1 week away from the races of Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. Let's break down our regularly scheduled Race Checklist into smaller portions for easier consumption (in the industry, we call this foreshadowing).
There are plenty of fueling options that we carry at Philadelphia Runner. Everyone's body is different, and consumption patterns vary, so I will not pretend to offer you a non–expert opinion about who, what, when, where, why, and/or how to incorporate nutrition/fuel into your training and racing programs. I can, however, provide you with an expert personal experience on a few of our offerings.
NOTE 1: If you do decide to add to or experiment with your nutrition/fuel program, you have less than a week to sort things out. Please keep that in mind.
NOTE 2: Please read all labels when shopping for fuel and nutrition options. Some have caffeine, contain gluten, dairy, etcetera. If you're unsure with any of our selection at Philadelphia Runner, drop us a line or ask any of our staff in store (locations below)!
Gu – when I first started running, 13 short years ago, I feel as if I only knew about Gu. I wanted fuel, I needed fuel, I used Gu. I actually ran faster back then, so..... Also, BIG fan of the Stroopwafel, which is basically energy as a breakfast treat. My gastro situation – let's just say I can get nauseous by simply thinking about nausea. I find the solid energy options a bit easier on my stomach.
Huma – one of my coworkers was HYPED about the new Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor. Huma is gluten and dairy free as well as vegan–friendly.
Maurten – super popular in the long distance and endurance arenas. I wanted to use it initially because of Eliud Kipchoge. And it seemed as if all of my faster–than–most running counterparts were Maurten subscribers. Then.....someone told me at Philadelphia Runner (before I joined the staff haha) that it's one of the easiest fuels on the stomach (see above). Maurten is one of my go–to’s and I've never had a problem with digesting or physically processing at any part of the training/racing cycle. My nerves are typically too shot for anything but water pre–race.....water and Maurten. I prefer the drink mix – 160 (40 grams of carbohydrates per 500 ml serving) or 320 (80 grams of carbohydrates per 500 ml serving), depending on the activity and the amount of carbs I need. There are also gel and solid options. Solid sounds good.....I'm adding one of each to the shopping cart. Race Day approaches.....
Nuun – I typically think "hydration only" when it comes to Nuun, but what better way to fuel your body then combining two hydrogen atoms with one oxygen atom (water). Then, drop in a Nuun tablet, wait 10–15 minutes, and voila! Furthermore.....the flavors are delicious. There are caffeinated options that I substitute for coffee some days. I'm also a huge proponent of the Vitamins and Immunity formulas when I'm under the weather.....and to prevent getting sick.
Tailwind – extremely popular on the ultrarunning scene, but also great for shorter distances AND recovery. The Rebuild Recovery Chocolate is ELITE. Just saying.
Continue your online experience with us and check out our Race Day Essentials Collection for any of your racing needs.
Forget something at home or need an extra layer or accessory for race morning? We've got you covered. Super last minute need?!?!? Preorder online, select store pick up, and stop by one of our four store locations on Friday or Saturday of Race Weekend:
PR Center City: 1711 Walnut Street; Open 11AM – 7PM Friday, 10AM – 7PM Saturday
PR University City: 3621 Walnut Street; Open 11AM – 7PM Friday, 10AM – 7PM Saturday
PR Manayunk: 4358 Main Street; Open 11 – 7PM Friday, Open 10AM – 7PM Saturday
PR Glen Mills: 505 Glen Eagle Square, Glen Mills, PA; Open 10AM – 6PM Friday, 10AM – 7PM Saturday