Many runners believe that small amounts of the stimulant caffeine are highly beneficial to marathon running.
Some take caffeine an hour or two before the marathon starts. And some also top up their caffeine levels during the race (although you should be aware that the frothy top on a nice cappucino is bound to blow away while running at speed).
Caffeine increases the amount of fat that is oxydised and available for use as a source of energy (meaning that all-important glycogen stores can last a bit longer).
Caffeine and dehydration
Of course, most people know that caffeine is a diuretic and, as such, you may have your race ruined by an urgent need to pee.
Caffeine also has a dehydrating effect on the body and dehydration is the marathon runner’s worst enemy.
So if you decide that caffeine can help keep you going for the full 26.2 miles, don’t overdo it.
It’s also worth noting that if you take caffeine before or during a race many experts think you should drink water rather than sports drinks to keep hydrated.
