04 Apr Coffee & running: A match made in motion
For many runners, a good run starts with a good cup of coffee. And it’s not just about the ritual – coffee can actually give your run a real boost! The caffeine in coffee is a natural performance enhancer. It can help improve endurance, sharpen focus, and even make tough workouts feel a little easier. Whether you’re hitting the trails or just jogging around the block, a pre-run cup can give you that extra spark to get moving. Here are some of the benefits:
- Boosted Energy and Focus: Caffeine stimulates your central nervous system, helping you feel more alert and mentally focused. That extra “kick” can be especially helpful on early morning runs or when motivation is low.
- Improved Endurance: Research shows that caffeine can help your body use fat as a fuel source more efficiently, which may help delay fatigue and extend your endurance – great for long runs or races.
- Reduced Perceived Effort: Caffeine can make your run feel easier by lowering the perception of effort and muscle pain, meaning you might push a little harder or go a little farther without realising it.
That said, everyone reacts a bit differently. Some runners might feel jittery, have an upset stomach, or need more bathroom breaks, so it’s a good idea to test your coffee routine during training – not race day! A moderate cup about 30–60 minutes before your run is usually enough to get the benefits without going overboard.