Runners?

I need to start training for a half and I would like to know what you guys eat for energy before and after. I know we can't eat like regular people, so I would like some ideas. My last four mile went terrible and I think it's because I didn't eat first. TIA.

 It's all trial and error.

Lots of people suggest a snack of protein/carb mix before exercise.

Unless I'm hungry, I just run.  If I'm planning more than 5 miles, I tend to carry energy gel with me (Gu is my preferred).  I also carry water with me, and if it's hot or I'm going to be out more than an hour, maybe a water/gatorade mix.

Protein for a snack when I'm done.

Anothey key is not to "snack" more than you exercise... I gained weight training for a marathon by overestimating!!

I'm currently training for a half too. I can run up to four miles on an empty stomach, but i drink smar****er during that time. For the longer runs ( i'll be doing 9 miles tomorrow) i use a gel every hour. I like the Hammer or GU gels. Low sugar for us dumpers. i've tried peanut butter crackers instead of the gels but that messed with my tummy.

Also, when i know i'm going to be running for a couple hours i'll eat a piece of wheat toast with peanut butter at least a half hour before i start the long run.

Race day its usually some oatmeal with raisins and nuts and maybe a slice of pb toast a couple hours prior to the race, then a ham or turkey and cheese sandwich after.

hope this information helps.

Seriously I trained myself to 145 pounds lol

Alway vanilla Click protein and skim prerun for me and half a peanut butter sandwich wtg in the car for the ride home.

I
Everyone has to find what works but that's my magic potion

I prefer to run on an empty stomach as well. When I did my half I simply ate a banana beforehand. Like some of the other posters, I wound up gaining some weight back when I started running seriously. It's easy to fall into the trap of feeling entitled to eat the wrong foods because you "burned them off during the run." I learned the hard way that when it comes to maintenance, it's all about what you are eating and not about how much you work out.

Thank you for the replies. I've seen the gels, just wasn't sure if they were ok for us. I'll definately look in to them.