The Best Snacks for Runners On the Go
Editor’s Note: This post is written by guest contributor, Mary Walton, and has been edited for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Minneapolis Running.
As runners, we’re constantly on the move. There’s simply no time to stop for a sit-down dinner most days when you’re already preoccupied with answering emails, managing family and friends, watching for oncoming vehicles and pedestrians and, of course, putting one foot in front of the other. Luckily there are a variety of quick, on-the-go snacks available for runners.
Related: Simple Meal Planning Tips for Busy Runners
7 Snacks for Runners on the Go
Here are some of the best snacks available, specifically designed for runners.
1. Overnight Oats
Easily one of my favorite runner snacks, this is also one of the easiest things to make. Simply take a mason jar, fill with oats and mix with soy or almond milk. Pop it in your fridge overnight, and you’ll be ready to rumble. Pour it into a small plastic tub, and you’ve got yourself a high-energy snack whenever you need it. Add as much chopped up fruit or nuts as you want!
2. Bananas
The God of all runner foods, bananas have to make an appearance on this list. It’s as though bananas have evolved themselves, especially for runners! This high-energy, slow release fruit can simply be chucked into your bag and eaten whenever you need a little boost throughout your day. Don’t slip on the skin!
Kerry Cosper, a nutrition specialist for Academized and Big Assignments, explains;
“You can never underestimate just how amazing a banana actually is. Not only is the shape simply perfect for holding, but the nutritional value in a single banana is also unparalleled, giving a runner everything they need in one simple boost.”
3. Raisins
There’s no denying that raisins are simply awesome. You can buy huge bags and split up portions yourself or simply buy them readily packaged in small boxes; the choice is up to you. You’ll find around 25g of sugar per small box, ideal for giving you that boost of energy you need while you’re out and about.
4. Baby Food
Yes, you read that correctly, baby food. These highly portable and easily digestible foods have been specially designed to be full of pure ingredients and packed with vitamins and nutrients for muscle development – what more does a runner need?
There are also so many flavors to choose from that you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Michael Olson, the sports writer for Elite Assignment Help, continues;
“I suggest eating baby food to all my clients, and consistently their reaction is shock. However, after giving it a go for the first run, all of them have come back and said it was one of the best running snacks they ever had!”
5. Gummy Bears
These awesome little sweets are packed with sugar, meaning all the energy you could ever need and such a small amount of fat that this makes the ideal food companion when out on a run. Simply pop open the corner of the packet, stuff the packet in your pocket, and you’re ready to go!
6. Pretzels
If you mention this as your snack of choice out on a run with your friends, you’re sure to get some funny looks but, hear me out. Pretzels are made with a high amount of carbs as well as high levels of salt, perfect for building up your energy levels and replenishing your salt reserves lost through sweat.
Furthermore, pretzels are renowned for their low fiber content meaning you’ll feel the effects so much quicker!
7. Frozen Grapes
To conclude my list, I’ve chosen one of my favorite running snacks. Take a bag of grapes and pop them in the freezer overnight. This may seem odd but while on a run, there is nothing, and I mean nothing, more refreshing than eating a frozen grape. Not only does this help to keep your mouth and body hydrated, once you hit that juicy middle part, but it’s also like you’ve run through heaven’s gates!
Your Favorite Snacks
What are your favorite snacks when you’re on the go? Share in the comments below.
Mary Walton is a health editor at OXEssays. She also helps sports professionals write CVs at Resume Writing Services. Mary enjoys running, and probably will try a triathlon soon. Also, she helps with content management at Assignment Writing Service.