Q & A: Running Without Eating and Aerobic Base

Well friends, we have made it to the middle of the week. I have been LOVING the warm temperatures and my early morning runs have been in shorts and tshirts. There is nothing better than literally rolling out of bed and watching the sun rise while running, especially when I am running completely pain-free again!

So, I know I recently did a Q&A post, but I have been getting quite a few more and they were really good!

What are your thoughts on running without fuelling? My morning routine is so streamlined that I don’t have time to eat. I normally don’t run longer than 10 KM and I recently read an article that says running on empty is a good way to train your body to get used to the effects of minimal fuel. However, I read a conflicting article that said that not fuelling before running is a huge mistake. What is the answer?

Welcome to the world of running, friend. Where conflicting information is a way of life. The frustrating answer to this question is it depends.

In normal training, I advocate for running with fuel. You can train harder, smarter and faster. Every morning before my run, I will grab something to kick up my glucose stores after a night of fasting so I can go harder and faster in my morning training. I normally have some Genuine Health ActivFuel mixed with water for short distances and if it is longer than 15 KM, I will grab an apple. At the bare minimum, I would recommend at least drinking some water with a bit of  juice mixed in to give yourself some hydration and carbs before setting out.

The other side of the coin is fasted training, which I have attempted as well. This type of training is done to tap into fat stores and train your body to get used to fuelling long distances with fat stores rather than carb stores. I do not recommend this type of training early in the season or close to key races as it puts a strain on the body, but done effectively, you can train your body to bonk and recover so if it happens on race day, you are familiar with your counter approach.

Want to read more on fasted training? Check out this article from Runners World.

When I go for a run, I am always less fatigued when I am able to stop at stoplights vs running straight through. Why is this?

When you start out as a running, you are still building your aerobic base and overall fitness. It will feel easier to stop at stoplights because you are giving your body a chance to recover and catch your breath. As you develop as a runner, it will get easier to run straight through and you will view the stoplights as a nuisance rather than a welcome break.

It also could be a psychological thing. As you tire, your brain is already putting on the breaks for you to slow down so stopping is going to feel better. As you consistently train, the easier it will become for you.

Have a burning question you want answered? Send it to lacesandlattes@gmail.com and I will weigh in on my thoughts.