Eating before a swim
/How long before a swim should you eat?
I’ve been asked this question a few times recently and there isn’t a clear answer. I think the major reason there isn’t one is because everyone is different. Not only that but the way you digest food and the speed of the process also changes over time. As a teen I could eat a decent meal an hour before a swim and be fine. I’d have to get out of the swim if I did that now…at the age of 30…something! The main rules are as follows :
Don’t eat a big meal before a big swim. Even if you digest it in time it takes energy to break down a large mass of food. On the day of a big swim eat smaller quantities, more often.
If you’re short of time and have to eat before a swim, eat something that will give you energy but is easy to eat…like Wheetabix.
Slow release energy sources are good (depending on what you’re doing) - brown rice / pasta.
If you’re new to swimming - experiment
I hate swimming on an empty stomach - get your timing right
If you don’t have a chance to eat before swimming and are really hungry, break out the emergency energy gel / bar
I’ve found that your body will get used to activity with food still in your system. It will take time to adjust however.
I always think it’s a good idea to eat something straight after training…before your energy stores get to depleted.
How far are you swimming? If we’re talking a prod around, some head up breastroke in the depths of winter…eat when you want.
