The Rookie Runner's Menu :  How to Fuel Up for Your First Run

If you're tired of 5-day-a-week elliptical sessions and feel ready to cover some IRL running distance, good for you. Becoming a runner is a fun and exciting feat – but there's more to it than just lacing up your shoes and hitting the pavement.

Without proper nutrition, you probably won't reach Molly Seidel status by your third marathon. Well, that might be a little too ambitious at this point. But in all seriousness, fueling your body properly for running is just as important as logging the miles.

Here's the low-down on how novice runners should approach diet and hydration before attempting their first mile or 5K.

7 fueling instructions

 1.Carb it up

 2. But wait — don’t over-carb

3. Feel free to experiment

4. Know where your line should be and draw it

5. Hydrate (duh)

6. Sports drinks are good for recovery but not essential for short runs

 7. Utilize time to train your stomach

The finish line.