This post is for all you coffee drinkers (or future coffee drinkers).
Here are 5 ways that coffee (that is with caffeine) can enhance your running performance:
- Moderate intake of coffee lowers perceived exertion. That means that your workouts may feel easier. So you may be able to maintain your desired running pace longer.
- Coffee increases your blood levels of free fatty acids. That makes them available for fuel while preserving your glycogen stores. In other words, you may be able to run longer distances.
- Coffee can also help preserve glycogen stores when consumed after exertion. So you should try drinking some after a run, as well.
- Coffee stimulates the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and lower perception of fatigue. A no-brainer on how this could help your running.
- Coffee stimulates peristalsis (or a bowel movement). So definitely try drinking some coffee before a race. LOL
Yes, I have tried caffeinated teas and they just didn’t have the same effect for me.
Of course, every runner is different. You may not need caffeine at all.
And my after race preference is actually chocolate milk not coffee.
Happy Running! Do you drink coffee? Any other benefits of coffee that I have missed? Please share.
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Nope, not a coffee drinker. But I will use caffeine for races, and not just tea. 🙂 I try to limit my caffeine in general, but I definitely get a boost from caffeine in races.
You have to be cautious with it, not everyone can actually tolerate coffee before races. For some it can make them jittery or even cause GI upset.
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You do what works for you.
I only drink one cup of coffee a day. I also mix gels with caffeine and without. Though there used to be more flavors without caffeine.
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Definitely a believer in #5! Sure helps in the morning. I don’t usually drink coffee right after a run but hey why not?!
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I don’t either. Maybe I should?
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I’ve never liked the taste of coffee, but I like my caffeinated teas (I believe you that it doesn’t have quite the same effect though! I like caffeinated gels for long runs and races- it definitely helps.
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I eat GU which has caffeine. Who knows if it helps?
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YAY for coffee! I always prefer hot – even in summer. I do use run gum for caffeine before races!
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I’ve never tried that. I should.
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Big coffee lover here! I never thought about drinking it after a run – I usually prefer chocolate almond milk. I’m also a fan of using caffeinated gels during a race.
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Me too
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What a pity, I don’t drink coffee at all. The last time I tried I had a strong stomach ache.
However I drink a Cappuccino (milk with a bit of coffee) every morning.
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I’m shocked. I thought all European’s loved expresso. Obviously you don’t need it.
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I enjoy both coffee and tea for different reasons. Usually coffee in the morning and some type of herbal tea at night.
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Same.
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I support this!
I do like (iced) coffee, cafe con leche from one particular spot, and that’s it. Warm drinks aren’t my favorite, so tea is out.
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Probably because you live in Fla. But when it’s sub zero.
Yes. Iced coffee in summertime
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