Trail running is a fun sport for people of all ages and ability levels. It is one sport that you can do on your own or that you can compete in. Whether you plan to run for a few miles or a few hours, you must keep your body hydrated and energized. To ensure that you have enough energy to keep going you will likely need to pack a few snacks. These snacks are easy to pack, can provide energy, can help prevent cramping, and can reduce hunger pains.
1) Oats
One of the best and easiest snacks to pack while running on trails is food made from oats. Oats are considered to be a superfood in the running community because they are a delicious and healthy carbohydrate that can give your body the necessary energy it needs to burn while exercising for extended periods of time. Some of the easiest snacks to pack for trail running include granola bars made from real oats, cooked oatmeal bars and more. There are many different homemade recipes for oatmeal bars. This allows you to cook the bars the night before a run and easily carry them with you during a run. You can add your favorite ingredients to them to make your snack delicious and high in energy.
2) Dark Chocolate
It may sound strange to eat chocolate while running, but it is not. You may notice that some elite athletes bring dark chocolate with them on a long run. Dark chocolate tastes great and is packed full of anti-inflammatory ingredients. This can have lasting effects on your body and joints after a run. It can help improve recovery and get you ready to run more.
3) Nut Butters
Another great source of energy that you can get is protein. Nut butters are a wonderful source of protein that you can easily spread on bread or oats to get a delicious and easy-to-pack snack. Try using almond and cashew butter because not only are they delicious, but they also have some of the highest protein levels. They will not only give you energy for trail running but will help keep your body nourished and healthy.
4) Rye Bread
Since carbohydrates are one of the most important foods to pack on a long run, rye bread is always an easy-to-pack snack. You can pack yourself a few pieces of rye bread to snack on while running. It is easy to chew and high in fiber. It also has a low glycemic index so it is great to consume while exercising. You can easily pack this snack in a bag and bring some jelly or peanut butter on it to eat.
5) Gel Shots
If you are planning a long trail run that will last more than an hour, your body will need energy. Gel shots are a great source of nutrition, hydration and energy that will allow you to run longer and feel better. There are many different brands and flavors of gel shots, so be sure to try a few different ones to determine which ones you like. Gel shots may not be the most delicious snack, but they are incredibly easy to pack and carry while running.
6) Apples
Apples are easy to pack for a run because they require no preparation and can provide both nutrients and hydration while running. You can take small bites of an apple while running and since it is food, you can throw the core into the woods for the animals to snack on. Apples are nutritious and delicious and perfect for both long and short runs while running.
7) Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are great for trail running and many elite athletes take them on runs each time they go. Chia seeds should be soaked in water or another fluid to help make them easier to digest and consume while running. You can prepare a delicious chia seed shake the night before running and grab it from the fridge before your run. This makes a perfect and easy to pack snack. The seeds provide a great deal of energy for your body and when combined with water, they provide hydration too.
8) Brown Rice
Brown rice is a highly nutritious snack that can easily be packed as a snack for trail running. While it is not the easiest snack to eat, it will provide ideal carbohydrates for your body. You should pack a little more than you think you will eat because it is sure to spill while running.
9) Chick Peas
Chick peas are another great snack because they can be easily consumed while running. Bring a handful of these legumes with you to give your body the energy and protein it needs to finish a run.
10) Jerky
If you crave meat while running, the best option for you to consume will likely be some form of jerky. Try to find jerky that is low in sodium so that your body does not crave extra water. Jerky is high in protein and can give your body long-lasting energy if you plan to run for more than an hour at a time. It is easy to snack on while running so you will not need to stop and eat.
These snacks are ideal for trail running because they are all quick and easy to consume while running. They are all either high in carbohydrates or protein, both of which are necessities for runners. Try experimenting with different foods to find ones that suit your needs and your tastes. While snacks are a great option for people who are looking to run longer than an hour, it is important to make sure you eat foods that are high in carbohydrates and protein both before and after your run. These foods are great options because they not only provide your body with the energy it needs, but also provides nutrition for your working body. While running, make sure that you also pack water to keep yourself hydrated on the trails.
