Podcast Episode #142: “Fueling for Marathons, Not for Weight Loss” with Holley Samuel

Training for a marathon is a monumental endeavor that demands both physical and mental fortitude. But if you’re thinking about cutting calories to shed some pounds during your training, think again. Contrary to popular belief, calorie restriction in order to lose weight and marathon training don’t mix.

When you’re preparing for a long-distance race, your body needs more fuel, not less. Instead of focusing on weight loss, which adds unnecessary stress to your body, prioritizing proper nutrition and consistent fueling is key for optimal performance and recovery.

In this episode, I talk to Holley Samuel, MEd, RD, CSSD, CPT, a sports dietitian with tons of experience working with runners of all ability levels at Holley Fueled Nutrition. We tackle common misconceptions about marathon training and weight loss, emphasizing the necessity of carbohydrates and adequate fueling. We’ll offer insights into managing fueling early morning workouts, understanding the role of nutrition in performance, and navigating the emotional landscape of body image during tapering.

Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or just starting out, this episode will help you shift your focus from the scale to the finish line and unlock a new level of performance along the way.

Episode 142 Highlights With Holley Samuel:

• Weight loss should not be the goal while training for a marathon.
• More cardio does not equal more weight loss, especially at extremes.
• Carbohydrates are the body’s main fuel source, especially for endurance athletes.
• Training the gut to tolerate fuel is essential for performance.
• Feeling puffy during tapering can indicate proper fueling and carbohydrate loading.
• Nutrition is one of the few controllable factors in marathon training.
• A well-performing athlete is a healthy athlete, and nutrition plays a key role.
• High sugar, low fiber foods can be beneficial for runners when timed correctly.
• Reframing minor weight gain during training is crucial for mental health and performance.
• Seek guidance from sports nutrition experts for tailored advice.

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What topics would you like to see us cover in upcoming episodes? —Alison

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