Marathon Walking Strategy - Energy Snacks While Walking

Marathon walkers have an advantage over runners - their bodies are able to replenish their energy from food and drink during the marathon. Most marathon walkers discover that they do need to eat while on the course. The body burns off all available fuel, and turns to burning whatever else is available. To stay in the race, simple carbohydrate is needed.

At every race you see the booths for various energy gels and energy bars with various claims.

Walkers going at a moderate pace may be able to snack on fruit, nuts, trail mix or solid energy bars. But those who are moving at a pace that leaves them breathing hard realize that chewing can lead to choking, which is why many faster walkers and runners have come to use energy gels such as Gu or PowerGel. Samples of these are often given away before the race.

If you think you will want to use a snack or energy gel during a race, be sure to try it out on your longer distance training days. Otherwise you may discover that it upsets your stomach during the race, a bad time to discover anything new. You will also find that most sugary snacks need to be washed down with plenty of water, so plan your water stops or the amount you carry accordingly.

Next page: > Clothing