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My Secret (and Safe!) Ingredient for Better Running

By Melissa Joy Dobbins
July 13, 2015

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 birthday-sprint-triathlonWhen I was 43 years old, I started running as a midlife “experiment.” I ran seven 5K races that summer. That led to a few 10Ks and a 15K over the next couple of years. Finally, I completed a sprint triathlon right before my 46th birthday. 

Despite all of that, I don’t really feel like an athlete. I am like many other health-minded folks who are trying to be active, setting goals, and working toward them. However, I do think like an athlete and take advantage of some of the ways that nutrition can help enhance my workouts and results. I integrate science-backed steps – whether it is being hydrated, refueling properly, or improving my performance with caffeine.

I’m not a fast runner – I’m more like the tortoise than the hare. (Slow and steady “wins” the race!) So when I heard about caffeine for performance, I tried it and it really worked for me. A small amount was all I needed to help me focus better, run faster, and feel better during and after my run. I was thrilled that something so simple and safe could help me get more results out of my efforts.

Here’s what you need to know about caffeine and performance:

cup-of-coffee

How much?

For me, 1 cup of coffee (about 100 mg caffeine) worked great. That’s well within the “moderate” amount that is considered safe (about 400 mg a day).

 

caffeine-amount-infographic

Where is it?

Caffeine isn’t just in coffee – it’s also in energy drinks and in smaller amounts in tea, colas, chocolate.

 

sweat-hydration

What about hydration?

Newer research debunks the myth that caffeinated beverages cause dehydration. In moderation, caffeinated beverages actually contribute to hydration. 

 

If you’re looking for a way to boost your exercise performance, you can rest assured that caffeine is a safe and effective option!

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