Question:
How do I stay refueled and hydrated while walking a half marathon after bypass surger

I am 3 1/2 years post op and have kept off 127 pounds of 130 pounds total loss. For the first time since my surgery in July 2001(due to multiple other surgeries most not associated with the bypass like 4 knee surgeries with 2 total knee replacements in the same knee) I am really able to start an exercise plan and have chose walking. I am training to walk a half marathon in March and am worried about staying refueled and hydrated during this 3-4hr period with my small stomach and low tolerance for sugars. Can anybody help? Are there any walkers or runners out there with some tips??? Thanks Janice    — janice G. (posted on January 19, 2005)

January 19, 2005
I have done several 1/2 marathons and 1 marathon. I just made sure that I drank at each station...not always water...sometimes Gatoraid (a small amount due to the sugar content). I also wore a "fanny pack" full of nuts, and power bites (check the sugar content). I was always fine...no problems. Good luck! Doing any kind of marathon is so rewarding...it was amazing! I hope to do it again soon. Cindy
   — Cindy T.

January 19, 2005
The only thing I can add to this is to make sure you are WELL hydrated in advance and have a protein meal a few hours before hand. Have fun & good luck!!
   — LMCLILLY

January 19, 2005
I have been doing 5k runs for about 2 years now. One thing that I bought for myself (because I was also worried about keeping hydrated)was a Camel Backpack. You put water (or whatever) in it and you carry it like a backpack. It has a long-squeesable tube that you can take a drink without having to take it off or making a big deal out of. I got it at Wal-Mart in the sports section for about $12.00. I love it! It is perfect for marathons, and I also took it to DisneyWorld - best thing ever for busy, active people! Good Luck! Danette
   — Danette C.

January 20, 2005
Hi! Good for you! I've done a few 1/2 marathons and am training for the LA marathon in March. Here's what works for me. I make sure I eat a protein meal before the race starts, and STAY HYDRATED! This is key! I can't do the gatorade...Never could even before surgery. But the little packets of Gu are great. They are low in sugar, but they say you should have one every hour. I don't do that. I do about 1/2 every hour. I haven't used a camelback, but my husband does. It bothers his shoulders after a few hours. He recommends a fanny pack type. I'm thinking of getting one. I have found the absolute best 1/2 marathons are the ones that have a marathon that uses the same course at the end. They always have water stations well stocked late in the race. Otherwise the stations close down before us walkers get there! Just my experience! You go girl! You will be hooked for life once you finish your first! *Tink
   — RunTink