I've frequently talked about my love of running. However, I’ve never actually detailed what I fuel my body with to keep me going. And this — I’ve come to learn after many mid-jog burnouts — is just as important as anything (yep, even down to the shoes I wear!).
I’m frequently asked about the how I fuel for my training. My response? Bananas and my Vital Proteins® staples. Bananas are pretty straightforward (they provide me steady nourishment and don't cause any cramping, unlike other fuels I've tried). But the latter of these comes with a little more of a backstory. Read on below to learn about these four Vital Proteins® products I swear by when it comes to keeping me fueled for the journey.
The Vital Proteins® Products I Swear By For Running
Vital Performance™ Pre
I'll start with my favorite first: Vital Performance™ Pre ($35.99; shop now). I used to consider pre-workout something to take for weightlifting. However, I found that taking pre-workout before my runs was helpful for my training!
Here's why: For long, early morning runs, I need a little something to get me going. Coffee never seems to agree with my stomach. However, with 140mg of coffee fruit caffeine from Coffeeberry® fruit extract per serving, I found Vital Performance™ Pre to be the perfect energy-enhancer for me.** And, I love that it rounds out my amino acid profile with BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) to provide me with complete proteins to propel my routine.** (Pro tip: Start with one scoop first to see how it works for you!)
Vital Proteins Collagen Water™
Maybe this is obvious, but proper hydration is so important for health and performance! While I try to guzzle as much water as I can during runs (at least a few sips every mile!), I always crave something with a little taste to it after I'm finished. So for me, there's something unbelievably refreshing about sipping on a Vital Proteins Collagen Water™ in Lemon Slice post-run ($12; shop now). Plus, with 10g of collagen added for maximum benefits, this grab-and-go drink gives me the collagen boost my body needs!**
Beef Liver Capsules
We all have athletic heroes, and mine is Olympic runner Alexi Pappas. After I got the chance to interview her for Lively, I discovered her favorite Vital Proteins® product was Beef Liver Capsules. (She loves that it's packed with vital nutrients and benefits to help reach her wellness goals.**) So naturally, I had to add them to my diet. Pappas = #GOALS.
Vital Performance™ Protein Bar
This Vital Performance™ product has quickly become a favorite, especially when it comes to my rest days. On these days (usually following a long or strenuous running day) I find myself famished. Instead of mindlessly grazing on snack after snack, I turn to a Vital Performance™ Protein Bar ($29.99; shop now). With 20g of protein, this is literally the only thing that seems to keep me full…and away from my snack cupboard! My personal favorite flavor is Vanilla Coconut, but you really can't go wrong with any of them!
And there you have it! These are my top four go-to Vital Proteins® products that keep my body fueled and thriving when it comes to training!
Vital Note: This article has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Your licensed healthcare professional can best provide you with the diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition and assist you as well in deciding whether a dietary supplement will be a helpful addition to your regimen.
