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Originally Posted by philosopherking
I'm going to be running my first half marathon in a couple of weeks, and I've been trying to decide whether or not I should start using Gels for my long runs. So far my longest distance has been 8 miles, and have felt fine w/out eating anything. I've been reading various forums and about half the people think Gels are necesarry and half think that they are more of a psychological boost and for distances of a half-marathon or less they aren't really needed. Has anyone ever ran a half, or an equivalent distance, w/out Gels? If it's something that I can safely do, I think I'd rather not deal with the hassle of Gels.
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Absolutely it is possible, how many world class marathon runners do you see popping GU packets during a race. None, they appropriately focus on hydration and elecrolyte replacement during race day. Basic proper nutrician with the right foods in the right amounts given your training periods is more important than the gel you may suck down 15 minutes prior to or during a race.
One of the best books I've read on nutrition is "Food for Fitness" by Chris Carmichael. (Currently Lance Armstrong's personal Coach) He dispels many myths and puts some hard science behind his nutrition and training program philosophy (Periodization). It's an easy read, pick it up.
