Fueling For a Marathon: One Week Before the Race

Start to increase your calorie intake, and ramp up the amount of carbohydrates you’re eating. Look for whole grain breads and pastas, fruits, and starches like sweet potatoes. A 2012 study from the University of Minnesota found that runners who carbo loaded the week before a marathon were less likely to bonk than those who didn’t, especially around the 18-mile mark, where many runners struggle.